Cabin monitoring system for a vehicle

ABSTRACT

A cabin monitoring system for a vehicle includes a video display screen disposed in a cabin of the vehicle so as to be viewable by a driver of the vehicle. A camera assembly is disposed at a ceiling of the cabin of the vehicle and includes a camera having an imager and a lens, with the camera having a field of view that encompasses a rear seat area of the vehicle. An illumination device is operable to illuminate the rear seat area encompassed by the field of view of the camera. The illumination device, when operated, illuminates the rear seat area and the camera captures image data representative of the illuminated rear seat area. The image data captured by the camera is provided to the video display screen for displaying video images for viewing by the driver of the vehicle.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No.14/971,196, filed Dec. 16, 2015, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,637,053, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 13/845,714, filed Mar.18, 2013, now U.S. Pat. No. 9,233,645, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 13/278,405, filed Oct. 21, 2011, now U.S.Pat. No. 8,427,288, which is a continuation of U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 12/536,930, filed Aug. 6, 2009, now U.S. Pat. No. 8,044,776,which is a continuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 12/052,341,filed Mar. 20, 2008, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,579,940, which is acontinuation of U.S. patent application Ser. No. 11/625,374, filed Jan.22, 2007, now U.S. Pat. No. 7,579,939, which is a continuation of U.S.patent application Ser. No. 10/755,915, filed Jan. 13, 2004, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,446,650, which is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.09/793,002, filed Feb. 26, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,690,268, whichclaims benefit of U.S. provisional applications, Ser. No. 60/263,680,filed Jan. 23, 2001; Ser. No. 60/243,986, filed Oct. 27, 2000; Ser. No.60/238,483, filed Oct. 6, 2000; Ser. No. 60/237,077, filed Sep. 30,2000; Ser. No. 60/234,412, filed Sep. 21, 2000; Ser. No. 60/218,336,filed Jul. 14, 2000; and Ser. No. 60/186,520, filed Mar. 2, 2000.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Practically every passenger-carrying vehicle (such as sedans,convertibles, sports utility vehicles, station wagons, minivans, pick-uptrucks and the like) comes equipped with an interior rearview mirror.Looking at the interior rearview mirror by the driver in order to seerearward is part and parcel of the driving task. Recently, a variety offeatures and accessories have been located at the interior rearviewmirror, such as are described in “ADDED FEATURE AUTOMOTIVE MIRRORS” byNiall R. Lynam, Society of Automotive Engineers Technical Paper #980922,February 1998, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. One such feature known in the art is placement of avideo screen within the reflector area of an otherwise standard interiorrearview mirror assembly. Thus, and as illustrated in FIG. 1, knowninterior rearview mirror assembly 10 comprises a mirror reflectorelement 14 housed in mirror case 12. Mirror case 12 and reflectorelement 14 are dimensioned symmetrical about the vertical centerline XXof assembly 10. Mirror housing 12 pivotally connects to mirror supportarm 18. The pivot point of mirror support arm 18 is at verticalcenterline XX. Vertical centerline XX essentially bisects mirror housing12. Thus, distance ZZ to XX, as in FIG. 1, is the same dimension asdistance XX to YY. Fixed reflectance mirror reflector element 14includes a mirror reflector layer that reflects light incident thereonfrom behind the vehicle to which assembly 10 is mounted. However, asignificant portion of the mirror reflector is removed to allow videoscreen 16 be viewed through the reflector element 14. Video screen 14comprises a multi-pixel liquid crystal display that is disposed in case12 behind reflector element 14. Images displayed by video screen 16 arethus viewed through reflector element 14.

Although the known assembly as described in FIG. 1 can operate incertain circumstances, there are disadvantages that limit its commercialuse and success. In order to provide a display screen large enough to beviewed by a driver of the vehicle equipped with assembly 10, arelatively large video screen must be used (typically of diagonaldimension 1.5 inches or greater) which necessitates that a significantarea of reflector layer be removed from reflector element 14 in order toallow display 16 be viewed therethrough. Thus, the rearward field ofview from reflector element 14 is significantly degraded, leading todeterioration in the driver's ability to efficiently and safely useinterior rearview mirror assembly 10 to see rearward. Also, the knownassembly 10 utilizes a fixed reflectance element as mirror reflectorelement 14 that provides no ability for the driver to achieve glarerelief when glaring conditions exist during night-driving. Because ofsuch disadvantage, the known assembly 10 has not enjoyed widespreadcommercial success, particularly with automobile original equipmentmanufacturers, and there is a need for a rearview mirror assembly,including a video screen, that overcomes these disadvantages.

SUMMARY OF INVENTION

One objective of this invention is to provide a video screen at aninterior mirror assembly in a way that maximizes rearward field of viewby the reflector element and that enables the driver to readily viewimages displayed by the video screen. A further objective is to achievethis while simultaneously providing a variable reflectivity for thereflector element. Another objective is to provide an interiormirror-mounted video screen for use with at least one of a rear back-upcamera, a baby-minder camera, and a sidelane-viewing camera.

In one form of the invention, a vehicular interior rearview mirrorassembly includes a mirror casing having a reflective element with arearward field of view when the interior rearview mirror assembly ismounted to a vehicle. The mirror casing includes a mounting portion,which is adapted to mount the mirror casing to the vehicle and, further,includes an increased lateral extent with respect to the mountingportion toward a passenger-side of the mirror casing when the mirrorassembly is mounted to the vehicle. A video screen is positioned in theincreased lateral extent for viewing by at least a driver of thevehicle.

In one aspect, the video screen displays video images, which areviewable through the reflective element. In other aspects, the videoscreen is adjacent the reflective element. For example, the casing wallmay define a rearward facing opening when the assembly is mounted tovehicle, with a reflective element positioned in the rearward facingopening, and may define a second rearward facing opening, with the videoscreen positioned in the second rearward facing opening.

In other aspects, the video screen extends through a portion of thereflective element.

In yet further aspects, the interior rearview mirror assembly furtherincludes an image capturing device. The image capturing device is incommunication with the video screen, which displays images captured bythe image capturing device.

In other aspects, the video screen displays a video image and, further,displays indicia overlaying the video image. For example, the indiciamay comprise a graphic display or an alphanumeric display.

In another aspect, the video screen may display an information displayselected from the group consisting of a rain sensor operation display, atelephone information display, a highway status information display, ablind spot indicator display, a hazard warning display, a vehicle statusdisplay, a page message display, a speedometer display, a tachometerdisplay, an audio system display, a fuel gage display, a heater controldisplay, an air conditioning system display, a status of inflation oftires display, an email message display, a compass display, an enginecoolant temperature display, an oil pressure display, a cellular phoneoperation display, a global positioning display, a weather informationdisplay, a temperature display, a traffic information display, atelephone number display, a fuel status display, a battery conditiondisplay, a time display, a train approach warning display, and a tollbooth transaction display.

According to another aspect, the video screen may comprise one of avacuum fluorescent display element, a light emitting diode display, anelectroluminescent display element, a multi-pixel display element, areconfigurable display element, and a scrolling display element.

In yet another aspect, the interior rearview mirror assembly may includeat least one additional electrical accessory selected from the groupconsisting of a trainable garage door opener, a universal home accesssystem, an internet interface, a remote keyless entry receiver, a videodevice, a rain sensor, a compass sensor, a trip computer, an intrusiondetector, a phone, an interior light, a seat occupancy detector, a phoneattachment, a headlamp controller, a printer, a transmitter receiver, amodem, an instrumentation light, a console light, a solar panel, awindshield portion defogger device, an antenna, a loud speaker, amicrophone, a digital message recorder, a magnetic tape messagerecorder, a phone control panel, and a digital storage device.

Another form of the invention, a vehicular interior rearview mirrorassembly includes a mirror casing with a first opening and a reflectiveelement positioned in the first opening for rearward viewing when theassembly is mounted to a vehicle. The mirror casing includes a secondopening in which a video screen is positioned for viewing by at least adriver of the vehicle.

In another aspect, the video screen is canted when the mirror assemblyis mounted to a vehicle for directing images displayed on the videoscreen toward a driver of the vehicle.

In another aspect, the mirror casing includes an angled portion directedtoward a driver of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted tothe vehicle, with the video screen positioned in the angled portion. Forexample, the angled portion may form an angle with respect to thereflective element in a range from about 150° to 178°, more preferablyin a range of about 165° to 177°, and most preferably in a range ofabout 170° to 176°.

According to another form of the invention, a vehicular interiorrearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing, which is adapted tomount to a vehicle, and a reflector, with the reflector having arearward field of view when the mirror assembly is mounted to thevehicle. A video screen is provided in the mirror casing, which isseparately and independently mounted from the reflector whereby thevideo screen does not encroach on the rearward field of view ofreflector.

In one aspect, the mirror assembly includes a second video screen whichis separately and independently mounted from the reflector whereby thesecond video screen also does not encroach on the rearward field of viewof the reflector.

In a further aspect, the reflector is sandwiched between the first videoscreen and the second video screen. The first video screen may beadapted for receiving signals from a first image capturing device, withthe second video screen being adapted to receive signals from a secondimage capturing device. For example, the first image capturing devicemay be positioned for viewing a driver-side of the vehicle, with thesecond image capturing device being positioned for viewing thepassenger-side of the vehicle. In this manner, the first video screen,the reflector, and the second video screen provide a substantially 180°rearward view of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted to thevehicle. For example, the image capturing devices may comprise cameras,such as CMOS cameras.

In other aspects, the video screen displays one or more video images andan information overlay over the video images. The information overlaymay comprise a graphic information overlay or an alphanumericinformation overlay.

According to another form of the invention, a rear vision system for avehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly, a video screen,and an image capturing device. The interior rearview mirror assemblyincludes a mirror casing that is adapted for mounting to an interiorportion of the vehicle and a reflective element. The image capturingdevice is adapted to mount to the vehicle and detects images and sendsvideo image signals to the video screen based on the detected images.The video screen is adapted to be mounted to an interior portion of thevehicle separate and independent from the reflective element and ispositioned for displaying video images visible to an occupant of thevehicle based on the video image signals.

In one aspect, the image capturing device detects rearward imagesrearward of the vehicle with the video screen displaying rearward imagesbased on the rearward image signals to provide an occupant of thevehicle with a rearward field of view of the vehicle. In a furtheraspect, the video screen is mounted in the mirror casing. Optionally,the video screen is removably mounted to the mirror casing over thereflective element to provide a video image generated rearward field ofview of the vehicle with the reflective element providing a backuprearward field of view in an event where one of the image capturingdevice and the video screen is rendered inoperable.

According to another form of the invention, a rear vision system for avehicle includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and first andsecond image capturing devices. The interior rearview mirror assemblyincludes a mirror casing for mounting to the vehicle, which includesfirst and second video screens and a reflective element. The reflectiveelement is positioned between the first and second video screens. Thefirst image capturing device is positioned for viewing a driver side ofthe vehicle, with the second image capturing device positioned forviewing a passenger side of the vehicle. The first video screen isadapted for receiving the driver side image signals from the first imagecapturing device, while the second video screen is adapted to receivepassenger side image signals from the second image capturing device.Together the first video screen, the reflective element, and the secondvideo screen provide a cognitive and physical association between theimages displayed on the first video screen, reflected images in thereflective element, and the images displayed on the second video screento provide a rearward field of view of the vehicle when the mirrorassembly is mounted to the vehicle.

In one aspect, the rearward field of view comprises a substantially 180°rearward field of view of the vehicle.

In another aspect, one of the video screens is adapted to display aninformation overlay over the images of the respective video screen.

According to another form of the invention, a vehicular video mirrorsystem includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and a video screen.The interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing and areflective element, which has a rearward field of view when the interiorrearview mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle. The mirror assemblyfurther includes a mirror mounting portion which is adapted to mount tothe interior rearview mirror assembly at an interior portion of thevehicle, such as a windshield portion or a header portion. The videoscreen is adapted to mount to a second interior portion of the vehiclespaced from the interior rearview mirror assembly, with the video screenbeing positioned for viewing by an occupant of the vehicle. The videoscreen displays at least one of rearward field of view images, internalcabin monitoring images, remote images, such as video teleconferencingimages, information display images such as information related to a rainsensor operation display, a telephone information display, a highwaystatus information display, a blind spot indicator display, a hazardwarning display, a vehicle status display, a page message display, aspeedometer display, a tachometer display, an audio system display, afuel gauge display, a heater control display, an air conditioning systemdisplay, a status of inflation of tires display, an e-mail messagedisplay, a compass display, an engine coolant temperature display, anoil pressure display, a cellular phone operation display, a globalpositioning system display, a weather information display, a temperaturedisplay, a traffic information display, a telephone number display, afuel status display, a battery condition display, a time display, atrain approach warning display and toll booth transaction display.

In another aspect, the video mirror system further includes an imagecapturing device which generates image signals and is in communicationwith the video screen. The video screen displays images from the imagecapturing device based on the image signals. For example, the imagecapturing device may comprise a video camera.

In a further aspect, the video mirror system further includes at leastone exterior sideview mirror assembly, in which the image capturingdevice is housed for capturing images rearward of the vehicle. Theexterior sideview mirror assembly includes an exterior mirror casing andat least one reflective element, with the image capturing devicesupported in the exterior mirror casing. In one aspect, the reflectiveelement of the exterior sideview mirror assembly includes a view port,with the image capturing device positioned behind the reflective elementand detecting rearward images through the view port.

According to another aspect, the video mirror system further includes avideo display housing, with the video screen supported in the videodisplay housing. The video display housing is adapted to mount the videoscreen to the second interior portion of the vehicle. In a furtheraspect, the video mirror system further includes a video displayassembly mount, for mounting the video display housing to the secondinterior portion of the vehicle. The video display assembly mountpreferably comprises an articulatable support and may, for example,include at least one pivot joint. In another aspect, the video displayassembly mount is adapted to provide a breakaway connection with thesecond interior portion of the vehicle whereby the video displayassembly mount releases engagement with the second interior portion ofthe vehicle upon impact with the force of a preselected magnitude.

In another aspect, the image capturing device comprises a pillar mountedimage capturing device.

According to yet another aspect, the mirror system includes a secondvideo screen which is adapted to mount to a third interior portion. Oneor both video screens may be positioned above the interior rearviewmirror assembly, or the interior rearview mirror assembly may bepositioned between the video screens. Alternately, one or both of thevideo screens may be mounted below the interior rearview mirrorassembly.

In another form of the invention, a vehicular video mirror systemincludes an interior rearview mirror assembly, a video screen, anexterior sideview mirror assembly, and an image capturing device. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing and areflective element, which has a rearward field of view when the interiorrearview mirror assembly is mounted to a vehicle. The interior rearviewmirror assembly has a mirror mounting portion, which is adapted to mountthe interior rearview mirror assembly at an interior portion of avehicle. The video screen is adapted to mount to a second interiorportion of the vehicle, with the exterior sideview mirror assembly beingadapted to mount to a side of the vehicle. The image capturing device ispositioned in the exterior sideview mirror assembly for viewing at leastrearward of the vehicle. The image capturing device generates imagesignals and is, further, in communication with the video screen. Thevideo screen displays images based on the image signals from the imagecapturing device.

In one aspect, the exterior sideview mirror assembly includes a mirrorcasing, a reflective element, and a mounting portion which is adapted tomount to the side of the vehicle. The image capturing device is housedin the mirror casing of the exterior sideview mirror assembly. In afurther aspect, the mirror casing of the exterior sideview mirrorassembly includes a first rearward facing opening and a second rearwardfacing opening, with its reflective element positioned in the firstrearward facing opening for viewing rearward of the vehicle. The imagecapturing device detects rearward images through the second rearwardfacing opening, with the reflective element being adjustable independentof the field of view of the image capturing device.

In one aspect, the image capturing device includes a rearward field ofview having a principal axis, which is angled at an offset angle withrespect to the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. For example, the offsetangle may be in a range of about 10° to about 70°. In other aspects, theoffset angle is a range of about 15° to about 55° or in a range of about20° to about 45°.

In another aspect, the image capturing device is positioned in themounting portion of the side view mirror assembly.

According to another aspect, the reflective element comprises aprincipal reflective element. The exterior sideview mirror assemblyfurther includes an auxiliary reflective element. The auxiliaryreflective element includes a view port, with the image capturing devicedetecting images through the view port of the auxiliary reflectiveelement. For example, the auxiliary reflective element may comprise awide-angle reflective element.

In one aspect, the principal reflective element and the auxiliaryreflective element are independently supported in the mirror casingwhereby adjustment of the principal reflective element is independent ofthe image capturing device.

In yet another form of the invention, a vehicular video mirror systemincludes an interior rearview mirror assembly and a video screen. Theinterior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirror casing and areflective element, which is supported in the mirror casing and has arearward field of view when the interior rearview mirror assembly ismounted to a vehicle. The reflective element includes a substrate and areflective coating, with the reflective coating including an opening.The video screen is positioned in the mirror casing aligned behind theopening in the reflective coating whereby an occupant of the vehicle canview the video screen through the opening of the reflective coating.

In one aspect, the reflective element includes an anti-reflectioncoating over at least the opening to thereby reduce the glare andenhance the visibility of the video screen. For example, theanti-reflective element may comprise an anti-reflective film.

In another aspect, the video mirror system further includes a variableintensity control which is in communication with the video screen, whichvaries the display intensity of the video screen, for example, inresponse to ambient lighting conditions.

In other aspects, the video mirror system further includes anelectrochromic dimming element which is disposed between the videoscreen and the reflective element to vary the display intensity of thevideo screen.

According to another form of the invention, a video camera module formounting to a vehicle includes a housing, which is adapted to mount to avehicle, and an image capturing device which is supported in thehousing. The module further includes at least one light source, whichilluminates the field of view of the image capturing device.

In one aspect, the module further includes a receiving station, which isadapted to mount to the vehicle. Preferably, the housing is releasablymounted to the receiving station. In addition, the housing includes aplurality of electrical connectors, which are coupled to the imagecapturing device and the light source, for coupling with correspondingconnectors of the receiving station, with the connectors of thereceiving station connecting to the vehicle electrical system anddelivering video images from said image capturing device to a videoscreen.

In another form of the invention, a vehicular video mirror systemincludes an interior rearview mirror assembly having a mirror casing anda reflective element, with the reflective element having a rearwardfield of view when the interior rearview mirror assembly is mounted to avehicle. The mirror assembly further includes a mirror-mounting portionadapted to mount to the interior portion of the vehicle, with theinterior portion comprising either a windshield portion or a headerportion of the vehicle. The video mirror system further includes a videodisplay assembly having a display housing, a video screen, and a displaymounting portion, which is adapted to mount the display assembly at theinterior portion of the vehicle. The display housing is positionablebetween at least one viewing position for viewing by an occupant of thevehicle and a stowage position.

In one aspect, the display mounting portion includes an articulatablesupport, and may, for example include at least one pivot joint. Inanother aspect, the display mounting portion and the mirror mountingportion are adapted to commonly mount to the interior portion of thevehicle. In a further aspect, at least one of the mounting portions isadapted for mounting to the interior portion of the vehicle with abreak-away connection so that it is adapted to release engagement withthe interior portion of the vehicle upon impact with a force of apreselected magnitude. In another aspect, the mirror mounting portionand the display mounting portion are configured for serially mounting tothe interior portion of the vehicle.

In another aspect, the display mounting portion includes a mirrormounting element, which is adapted for mounting to the interior portionof the vehicle, with the mirror mounting portion being mounted to themirror mounting element of the display mounting portion.

In other aspects, the display mounting portion includes at least twopivot joints. For example, one of the pivot joints may comprise a balljoint.

In yet another aspect, the display mounting portion includes a support,which mounts the video display assembly to the mirror mounting portionof the interior rearview mirror assembly. For example, the support mayreleasably mount the video display assembly to the mounting portion ofthe interior rearview mirror assembly. In another aspect, the mirrormounting portion includes a mirror mount which is adapted to provide abreak-away mounting for the interior rearview mirror assembly to theinterior portion of the vehicle. In this aspect, the support of thevideo display assembly mounts to the mirror mount of the interiorrearview mirror assembly. For example, the support may comprise anarticulatable support, including, for example at least one pivot joint.In another aspect, the support of the video display assembly includestelescoping portions which permit the video display assembly to beextended or retracted to move between extended positions and a stowedposition.

In another aspect, the display mounting portion includes anarticulatable support which includes a mirror mount. The mirror mount ofthe support which is adapted to provide a break-away connection toeither the windshield portion or the header portion. In this aspect, themirror mounting portion is adapted to mount the interior rearview mirrorassembly to the articulatable support.

In other aspects, the video mirror system includes a compass module. Themirror mounting portion is adapted to provide a break-away connectionfor the interior rearview mirror assembly to either the windshieldportion or the header portion, with the compass module mounted to themounting portion of the interior rearview mirror assembly. In a furtheraspect, the display mounting portion is adapted to mount to the compassmodule. Preferably, the compass module is releasably mounted to themirror mounting portion so that the compass module and video displayassembly are adapted to release engagement with the mirror mountingportion upon impact with a force of a preselected magnitude. In thismanner, the interior rearview mirror assembly, and the compass moduleand the video display are mounted in series to the interior portion ofthe vehicle.

According to yet another form of the invention, a vehicular video mirrorsystem includes an interior rearview mirror assembly and a video displayassembly. The video display assembly includes a display housing, a videoscreen in the display housing, and a display mounting portion, which isadapted to mount the display housing at an interior portion of thevehicle. The display mounting portion is adapted to permit repositioningof the display housing to a plurality of viewing positions for viewingby an occupant of the vehicle. The interior rearview mirror assemblyincludes a mirror casing, a reflective element, and a mirror mountingportion which is adapted to mount the interior rearview mirror assemblyat an interior portion of the vehicle. The mirror mounting portion andthe display mounting portion are adapted to commonly mount at theinterior portion of the vehicle.

In one aspect, the display housing is pivotally mounted to the displaymounting portion. For example, the mirror mounting portion may bemounted to the display mounting portion by a break-away connection. Inanother aspect, the mirror mounting portion and the display mountingportion are mounted to an adapter, with the adapter being adapted tomount at the interior portion of the vehicle. For example, the adaptermay include a break-away connection for mounting at the interior portionwhereby the adapter releases engagement with the interior portion of thevehicle upon impact with a force with a preselected magnitude. In afurther aspect, the adapter includes at least one adapter mountingelement, with at least one of the mirror mounting portion and thedisplay mounting portion having a break-away connection for mounting tothe adapter mounting element whereby either the mirror mounting portionor the display mounting portion releases engagement with the adaptermounting element upon impact with the force with a preselectedmagnitude. In a further aspect, the adapter includes first and secondadapter mounting buttons, with each of the mirror mounting portion andthe display mounting portion having a break-away connection for mountingto the adapter mounting buttons whereby the mirror mounting portion andthe display mounting portion release engagement with the respectiveadapter mounting buttons upon impact with the force of a preselectedmagnitude.

In another aspect, the display mounting portion includes anarticulatable support, which permits repositioning of the displayhousing, such as by manual repositioning. Alternately, the articulatablearm includes one or more actuators for facilitating assistedrepositioning of the display housing. In a further aspect, the videomirror system includes an image capturing device for mounting to thevehicle with the image capturing device detecting images and sendingimage signals to the video screen based on the detected images. Forexample, the actuators may be adapted to move the display housing to aviewing position in response to signals from a sensor, which detects andgenerates sensor signals when the vehicle is moving in a reversedirection. Optionally, the display assembly may include an imagecapturing device for capturing images of the interior of the vehicle.For example, the image capturing device may comprise a camera, such asCMOS camera. For example, the interior image capturing device can detectimages and send image signals to the display screen based on thedetected images with the display screen displaying images based on theimage signals.

In another form of the invention, a video mirror system for a vehicleincludes an interior rearview mirror assembly, a video display assembly,and an image capturing device. The interior rearview mirror assemblyincludes a mirror casing and a reflective element, with the interiorrearview mirror assembly being adapted for mounting to an interiorportion of a vehicle. The video display includes a video display housingand a video screen. The video display assembly is adapted for commonlymounting with the interior rearview mirror assembly to the interiorportion of the vehicle. The image capturing device is adapted to mountto the vehicle and detects images and sends image signals to the videoscreen based on the detected images. The video screen displays videoimages based on the image signals. The display housing is positionableto a plurality of viewing positions for displaying the video image to anoccupant of the vehicle.

In one aspect, the image capturing device detects rearward imagesrearward of the vehicle and sends rearward image signals to the videoscreen based on the rearward images. The video screen displays videoimages based on the rearward images to provide a driver of the vehiclewith a rearward field of view of the vehicle independent of thereflective element.

In another aspect, interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirrormounting portion, with the video display assembly having a displaymounting portion on which the mirror mounting portion is mounted. Forexample, the mirror mounting portion may include a break-away connectionfor releasably mounting the interior rearview mirror assembly to thedisplay mounting portion.

In another aspect, each of the interior rearview mirror assembly and thevideo display assembly include a mounting portion, which are commonlymounted to an adapter. The adapter is adapted to provide a break-awayconnection with the interior portion of the vehicle. For example, themounting portion of the mirror assembly may include a break-awayconnection with the adapter. Similarly, the mounting portion of thedisplay assembly may include a break-away connection with the adapter.

In yet another form of the invention, a video display/in-cabin camerasystem includes a video display system, an image capturing device, andat least one light source. The display system includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly and a video display assembly. The interiorrearview mirror assembly and the video display assembly are mounted toan interior portion of the vehicle. The image capturing device isadapted to mount to a second interior portion of the vehicle, with theimage capturing device being in communication with the video displayassembly. The video display assembly includes a video screen fordisplaying images captured by the image capturing device. The lightsource is provided for illuminating a third portion of the interior ofthe vehicle, with the image capturing device being directed to thedetect images at the third portion of the vehicle.

In one aspect, the image capturing device and the light source areadapted to mount to the roof portion of the vehicle.

In other aspects, the light source is adapted to generate non-visibleradiation and comprises, for example a near infrared emitting LED. In afurther aspect, the image capturing device comprises a color camera,such as a color microchip array. In yet a further aspect, the camerasystem includes an infrared filter element aligned with the lens of thecolor camera to reflect away near infrared radiation. For example, thefilter may be adapted to move between a filter position in which thefilter is aligned with the camera lens and a non-filtering position inwhich the filter is moved out of alignment with the camera lens.

According to another form of the invention, a video mirror systemincludes an interior rearview mirror assembly, a video display assembly,and a pod. The interior rearview mirror assembly includes a mirrorcasing, a reflective element, and a mirror support, with the mirrorsupport including a mirror mount for releasably mounting the interiorrearview mirror assembly to an interior portion of the vehicle. The podis attached to the mirror mount of the mirror support. The video displayassembly includes a video display housing and a video screen, with thevideo display housing being movably mounted to either the pod or themirror mount of the mirror support.

In one aspect, the mirror support includes a dual-ball mount supportarm. In another aspect, the video display housing is movably mounted tothe mirror support. For example, the video display assembly may includea video display attachment, which mounts the video display housing tothe mirror support. Preferably, the video display attachment isreleasably mounted to the mirror support.

According to another aspect, the video display housing is mounted to thepod by an extendable support whereby the video display housing can beextended to a plurality of extended viewing positions and retracted to aretracted position.

In other aspects, the video display assembly further includes aplurality of user actuatable buttons which provide user access to one ormore functions and features of the video mirror system.

According to yet another aspect, the video display assembly housing ismovable behind the mirror casing and moved to its stowed position.

In yet another aspect, the pod includes an attachment member and a podhousing. The pod housing is rotatably mounted to the attachment member,and the video display housing is mounted to the pod housing wherebyrotation of the pod housing adjusts the orientation of the video displayhousing.

According to another aspect, the video display assembly further includesa remote transaction unit, which includes a memory reader element forreading a charge/debit card. The memory reader element reads informationfrom the card whereby an occupant of the vehicle can engage in remotetransactions. For example, the remote transaction may comprise anelectronic toll card system.

In another aspect, the memory reader element is mounted at the videodisplay assembly. Alternately, the memory reader element may be mountedin the mirror assembly.

These and other objects, advantages, purposes and features of thisinvention will become more apparent from a study of the drawings takenin conjunction with the review of the description which follows.

DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a front elevation of a prior art vehicular interior rearviewmirror assembly incorporating a video screen;

FIG. 2 is a front elevation of a vehicular interior rearview mirrorassembly of the present invention incorporating a video screen;

FIG. 3 is a front elevation view of a second embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention incorporatinga video screen;

FIG. 4 is a front elevation view of a third embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention incorporatinga video screen;

FIG. 5 is a front elevation view of a fourth embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 6 is a front elevation view of a fifth embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 7 is a front elevation view of a sixth embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 8 is a front elevation view of a seventh embodiment of a vehicularinterior rearview mirror assembly incorporating a pair of video screensof the present invention;

FIG. 9 is a schematic view of a rear vision system with an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention incorporating a pairof video screens;

FIG. 10 is a schematic view of a second embodiment of a rear visionsystem of the present invention.

FIG. 11 illustrates a windshield mounted video display system of thepresent invention;

FIG. 12 illustrates video screen mounting members for the windshieldmounted video display system of the present invention;

FIG. 13 is a side elevation view of a mounting arrangement of awindshield mounted video display system and an interior rearview mirrorassembly of the present invention;

FIG. 14 is a side elevation view of a second embodiment of a mountingarrangement of a windshield mounted video display system and an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 15 is a side elevation view of a third embodiment of a mountingarrangement of a windshield mounted video display system and an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 16 illustrates a rear vision system of the present inventionincorporating multiple windshield mounted video screens and exteriormirror mounted cameras;

FIG. 17 illustrates another embodiment of the rear vision system of thepresent invention incorporating multiple windshield mounted videoscreens;

FIG. 18 illustrates a third embodiment of the rear vision system of thepresent invention incorporating multiple windshield mounted videoscreens;

FIG. 19 illustrates a fourth embodiment of a rear vision system of thepresent invention incorporating multiple windshield mounted videoscreens;

FIG. 20 is a plan view of a vehicle illustrating the blind spot of thevehicle;

FIG. 21 is a plan view of a vehicle incorporating a video camera blindspot detection system of the present invention;

FIG. 22 is an enlarged elevation of a driver side exterior rearviewmirror assembly incorporating a video camera for a blind spot detectionsystem;

FIG. 23 illustrates a reflective element of a mirror assemblyincorporating a video camera;

FIG. 24 is a schematic representation of the orientation of a videocamera incorporated into an exterior mirror of a blind spot detectionsystem of the present invention;

FIG. 25 is an enlarged elevation of another embodiment of an exteriormirror housing incorporating a video camera of a blind spot protectionsystem of the present invention;

FIG. 26A illustrates an exterior rearview mirror assembly mounted to avehicle incorporating a video camera of a blind spot detection system ofthe present invention;

FIG. 26B is an enlarged view of the video camera of the exteriorrearview mirror assembly of FIG. 26A;

FIG. 27 is an enlarged view of a third embodiment of an exterior mirrorincorporating a video camera of a blind spot detection system of thepresent invention;

FIG. 28 is a schematic view of another embodiment of an exterior mirrorof the present invention incorporating a video camera and a wide-anglereflective mirror element of a blind spot detection system;

FIG. 29 is a cross-section view of an exterior mirror of the presentinvention incorporating a video camera and an auxiliary exterior mirrorreflector;

FIG. 30 is a perspective view of yet another embodiment of an exteriorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention mounted to a vehicleincorporating a video camera and an auxiliary reflective element of ablind spot detection system;

FIG. 31 is a plan view of a trailer container camera system of thepresent invention;

FIG. 32 is a cross-section view of a contrast enhanced video displaymirror reflective element assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 33 is an elevation view of another embodiment of an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention mounted to vehicleincorporating a video display;

FIG. 34 is an elevation view of another embodiment of an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention incorporating anelectrochromic reflective element and a video screen;

FIG. 35 is another embodiment of an interior rearview mirror assemblyincorporating an electrochromic reflective element having twocompartments, with one compartment incorporating a video screen;

FIG. 36 is an elevation view of another embodiment of an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the present invention incorporating anelectrochromic reflective element with two zones and a video screenincorporated into one of the zones;

FIG. 37 illustrates a schematic view of an electronic conversationsystem of the present invention;

FIG. 38A is a view from the exterior of a vehicle incorporating rearfacing exterior and interior cameras of a rear vision system of thepresent invention;

FIG. 38B is a view from the interior of the vehicle of the mountingarrangement of the cameras of FIG. 38A;

FIG. 39A is a perspective view of a video display assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 39B is a similar view to FIG. 39A illustrating the video displayassembly in a second orientation;

FIG. 40A is a bottom perspective view of a video mirror assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 40B is an enlarged bottom perspective view of the mirror assemblyof FIG. 40A illustrating controls for the video mirror assembly;

FIG. 41A is a top plan view of a video camera module of the presentinvention;

FIG. 41B illustrates the video camera module of FIG. 41A mounted to areceiving station in the vehicle;

FIG. 42A illustrates an enlarged view of the underside of a video cameramodule of the present invention;

FIG. 42B is an enlarged plan view of a receiving station for the videocamera module of FIG. 42A;

FIG. 43 illustrates another embodiment of a rear vision system of thepresent invention incorporating pillar mounted video cameras and pillarmounted video screens;

FIG. 44 illustrates yet another embodiment of a rear vision system ofthe present invention incorporating pillar mounted video screens andexterior mirror mounted cameras;

FIG. 45 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention illustrating a video displayassembly in a viewing position;

FIG. 46 is a similar view to FIG. 45 illustrating the video displayassembly moved to a stowed position;

FIG. 46A is a similar view to FIG. 45 illustrating a wire managementsystem for the video mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 46B is similar to FIG. 46A illustrating a second embodiment of awire management system of the video mirror system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 47 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror assembly of the present invention illustrating another mountingarrangement for the video display assembly;

FIG. 48 is a side elevation view of yet another mounting arrangement forthe video display assembly of the video mirror system of the presentinvention;

FIG. 49 is a side elevation of another embodiment of the video mirrorsystem of the present invention;

FIG. 49A is an enlarged view of an adapter of the video mirror system ofFIG. 49;

FIG. 50 is a similar view to FIG. 49 illustrating another mountingarrangement of the video mirror system;

FIG. 51 is a side elevation view of yet another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 52 is a side elevation view of another mounting arrangement of thevideo display assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 53 is a similar view to FIG. 52 illustrating another mountingarrangement of the video display assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 54 is a similar view to FIG. 52 illustrating another mountingarrangement of the video display assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 55 is a side elevation of another mounting arrangement of the videodisplay assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 56 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 57 is a side elevation view of another mounting arrangement of thevideo mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 58 is a graph illustrating spectral transmission curves for anear-IR filter, a blue filter, a green filter, and a red filter;

FIG. 59A is a schematic representation of a video display/in-cabincamera system of the present invention;

FIG. 59B is a second embodiment of the video display/in-cabin camerasystem of the present invention;

FIG. 60 is a graphical representation of a display of the presentinvention illustrating displaying various locations for optional displaycharacters, icons, or the like;

FIG. 61 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 62 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 63 is a partial front elevation view of the video mirror systemincorporating another embodiment of a video display assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 64A is a rear perspective view of a video mirror system of thepresent invention;

FIG. 64B is a rear perspective view of a video display attachment mountof FIG. 64A;

FIG. 65A is a side elevation view of the video mirror system of FIG. 64Awith the video display assembly moved to a stowed position;

FIG. 65B is a similar view to FIG. 65A illustrating the video displayhousing moved to a viewing position;

FIG. 66A is a similar view to FIG. 65A illustrating the video displayassembly moved to a second viewing position;

FIG. 66B is a similar view to FIG. 66A illustrating the video displayhousing rotated to another viewing position;

FIG. 67 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 68 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 68A is a side elevation view of yet another embodiment of a videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 69 is an enlarged partial fragmentary view of a video mirror systemof the present invention incorporating a remote transaction unit;

FIG. 69A is an enlarged partial fragmentary view of another embodimentof the video mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 70 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention incorporating a cardreceiving/reading element;

FIG. 71 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention incorporating a remotetransaction electronic element;

FIG. 72 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention incorporating a remotetransaction electronic element;

FIG. 73 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 74 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 75 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 76 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of the videomirror system of the present invention incorporating a vehicleinformation display;

FIG. 77 is an enlarged perspective view of a rearview mirror supportincorporating a vehicle information display of the present invention;

FIG. 78 is a schematic view of a dual camera detector assembly of thepresent invention;

FIG. 79 is a front elevation view of an accessory module/mirror systemof the present invention;

FIG. 80 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 79;

FIG. 81 is an enlarged side elevation view similar to FIG. 80;

FIG. 82 is an exploded side elevation view of the accessorymodule/mirror system of FIGS. 79-81;

FIG. 83 is a partial front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module of the present invention;

FIG. 84 is an exploded perspective view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of the present invention incorporating anaccessory module;

FIG. 85 is a partial perspective view of the accessory module of FIG. 84illustrating a portion of the module telescoping between two viewingpositions;

FIG. 86 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 87 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 88 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule of the present invention;

FIG. 89 is a rear elevation view of the accessory module of FIG. 88;

FIG. 90 is a front elevation view of a display unit of the accessorymodule of FIG.

FIG. 91 is an elevation view of the inside of the display unit housingcover of the display unit of FIG. 90;

FIG. 92 is a similar view to FIG. 91 with a keypad inserted into thedisplay unit housing cover;

FIG. 93 is a plant view of a display element and a circuit board;

FIG. 94 is a similar view to FIG. 92 with a display element in circuitboard of FIG. 93 positioned in the display unit housing cover;

FIG. 95 is a plan view of a support frame;

FIG. 96 is a similar view to FIG. 94 with the support frame of FIG. 95positioned in the display unit housing cover;

FIG. 97 is a plan view of an auxiliary circuit board with a plurality ofswitches mounted on the auxiliary circuit board;

FIG. 98 is a similar view to FIG. 96 with the auxiliary circuit boardpositioned to align with the keypad and the circuit board of FIG. 93positioned over the mounting frame;

FIG. 99 is an elevation view of a pivot mount for the display unit ofFIG. 98;

FIG. 100 is a similar view to FIG. 98 with the pivot mounted to thedisplay unit;

FIG. 101 is a perspective view of a user control;

FIG. 102 is an elevation view of the inside of the back cover of thedisplay unit housing;

FIG. 103 is a similar view to FIG. 102 with the user control positionedin the back cover;

FIG. 104 is a back view of the back cover of FIG. 103;

FIG. 105 is a plan view of the base of the mounting module of theaccessory module of FIG. 88 illustrating the inside of the base;

FIG. 106 is a plan view of a second circuit board;

FIG. 107 is a similar view to FIG. 105 with the circuit board of FIG.106 placed in the base of FIG. 105;

FIG. 108 is a top plan view of a cover of the mounting module housing;

FIG. 109 is a top plan view of the cover of FIG. 108 positioned over thebase of FIG. 107;

FIG. 110 is a front perspective view of a camera module of the presentinvention;

FIG. 111 is a front perspective view of the cover of the camera moduleof FIG. 110;

FIG. 112 is a perspective view of the camera module of FIG. 110 with thecover removed;

FIG. 113 is a similar view to FIG. 112 illustrating the mounting of thecamera to the base of the camera module;

FIG. 114 is a bottom view of the camera module of FIG. 110 and amounting plate for mounting the camera module;

FIG. 115 is a bottom perspective view of the camera module mounted tothe mounting plate;

FIG. 116 is a front perspective view of another embodiment of the cameramodule of the present invention which incorporates a filter;

FIG. 117 is a similar view to FIG. 116 with the filter moved out ofalignment with the camera;

FIG. 118 is a plan view of the cover and base of the camera module ofFIGS. 116 and 117;

FIG. 119 is a perspective view of the camera mounted to the base of thecamera module;

FIG. 120 is an enlarged front perspective view of the camera mounted tothe base of the camera module;

FIG. 121 is an enlarged front perspective view of the cover of thecamera module illustrating the filter moved to a night viewing or lowlight viewing position;

FIG. 122 is a similar view to FIG. 121 illustrating the filter moved toa day light viewing position;

FIG. 123 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention incorporating anelectronic toll card system;

FIG. 124 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 123;

FIG. 125 is a front elevation view of another embodiment the accessorymodule/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 126 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 125;

FIG. 127 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of accessorymodule/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 128 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 127;

FIG. 129 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 130 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 129;

FIG. 131 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 132 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 131;

FIG. 133 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 134 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 133;

FIG. 135 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 136 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 135;

FIG. 137 is a front elevation view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of FIG. 123;

FIG. 138 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 137;

FIG. 139 is a bottom perspective view of another embodiment of theaccessory module/mirror system of the present invention;

FIG. 140 is a side elevation view of the accessory module/mirror systemof FIG. 139;

FIG. 141 is a front bottom perspective view of another embodiment of anaccessory module/mirror assembly of the present invention;

FIG. 142 is a similar view to FIG. 141 illustrating the accessory modulemoved to an extended position;

FIG. 143 is a side view of the accessory module/mirror system of FIG.142;

FIG. 144 is a similar view to FIG. 143;

FIG. 145 is a perspective view of another embodiment of the mountingarrangement of an accessory module;

FIG. 146 is a schematic view of another embodiment of the mountingarrangement of an accessory module;

FIG. 147 is a perspective view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule and mounting arrangement;

FIG. 148 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule/mirror system; and

FIG. 149 is a side elevation view of another embodiment of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention.

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

An improved interior rearview mirror assembly of the present inventionis shown in FIG. 2. Interior rearview mirror assembly 20 is adapted foruse in a left-hand drive vehicle. Thus, when interior rearview mirrorassembly 20 is attached in or at an interior of a vehicle (such as to awindshield or to a header portion of the vehicle interior cabin, asknown in the mirror arts), the driver of the vehicle is seated closer toportion ZZ′-XX′ (see FIG. 2) than to portion XX′-YY′. Video screen 26 isin portion XX′-YY′ of mirror casing 22 at a location as close as can beaccommodated to the end of casing 22 farthest from the seating positionof the driver in the vehicle. Casing 22 attaches to the vehicle via amirror support arm 28 that projects from the rear (or alternately fromthe top) of casing 22 at a mounting portion located at a verticalcross-sectional line XX′. Thus, and importantly, the distance from ZZ′to XX′ is less than the distance from XX′ to YY′ and the point ofattachment of the mirror support arm 28 to mirror casing 22 isasymmetrical with respect to edges A and B (see FIG. 2) of casing 22. Inother words, casing 22 has a greater lateral extent with respect to oras measured from its mounting portion on a passenger-side of casing 22than on a driver-side of casing 22. The increase in the lateral extentwith respect to the mounting portion on the passenger seat side ofcasing 22 may be increased approximately the width of video screen 26,or an incremental amount as described below. Thus, mirror support arm28, about which mirror casing 22 is pivotally adjustable in order toallow the driver adjust the rearward field of view of mirror reflectorelement 24 housed in casing 22 to suit the driver's preference, islocated closer to end A or the driver-side of casing 22 than to end B orpassenger-side of casing 22. Preferably, in order to accommodate asuitably sized video screen 26 within portion XX′-YY′, and in order toallow sufficient reflector area in portion XX′-YY′ in order to satisfythe driver's rearward field of view needs, it is preferable that thedistance XX′-YY′ exceed the distance XX′-ZZ′ by at least about 0.72inches, more preferably by at least about 1.25 inches, and mostpreferably by at least about 1.75 inches. However, the distance thatdimension XX′-YY′ exceeds distance XX′-ZZ′ is preferably not greaterthan about 5.5 inches, more preferably not greater than about 4.5inches, and most preferably not greater than about 3.5 inches, in orderto obviate overly increased vibration of the assembly and to obviateinterference with other cabin items such as a visor and the like.Whereas the XX′-YY″ dimension is increased to accommodate video display26, the dimension of XX′-ZZ′ is preferably less than about 6 inches,more preferably is less than about 5 inches, and most preferably is lessthan about 4.5 inches.

Mirror reflector element 24 can either be a manually actuated prismaticflat prismatic element or be an electrically variable reflectancereflector element, such as an electrochromic mirror element, as both areknown in the mirror art. However, mirror reflector 24 preferably is abent, wide-angle mirror reflector rather than a flat mirror reflector,as is typically used in interior rearview mirror assemblies. This is inorder to compensate for the field of view lost by the portion of themirror reflector surface occupied by video screen 26. If a bent,wide-angle optic reflective element, it is preferable that mirrorreflector element 24 comprise a glass substrate coated with a bendablereflector coating (such as of silicon as described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/313,152, filed May 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,065,840; and Ser. No. 09/074,810, filed May 8, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No.6,286,965; and U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,535,056 and 5,751,489, all commonlyassigned, the disclosures of which are incorporated by reference hereinin their entireties). Also, if a fixed reflectance reflector element, itis preferable that mirror reflector element 24 comprise a bent prismaticmirror element, preferably comprising a bent (either spherically bent ormultiradius bent) glass element of prismatic cross-section in itsthickness dimension. Also, mirror reflector 24 can comprise a wide-angleoptic, bent electro-optic reflective element, preferable anelectrochromic reflective element such as a convex, spherically bentelectrochromic mirror element or a multiradius (such as aspheric)electrochromic mirror element, such as an electrochromic mediumdescribed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,140,455 and 5,151,816,or a solid state electrochromic medium, such as described in thefollowing publications: N. R. Lynam, “Electrochromic AutomotiveDay/Night Mirrors”, SAE Technical Paper Series 870636 (1987); N. R.Lynam, “Smart Windows for Automobiles”, SAE Technical Paper Series900419 (1990); N. R. Lynam and A. Agrawal, “Automotive Applications ofChromogenic Materials”, Large Area Chromogenics: Materials and Devicesfor Transmittance Control, C. M. Lampert and C. G. Granquist, EDS.,Optical Engineering Press, Wash. (1990), the disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties. Othersuitable electrochromic reflectors are described in U.S. Pat. No.6,178,034; 6,154,306; 6,002,544; 5,567,360; 5,525,264; 5,610,756;5,406,414; 5,253,109; 5,076,673; 5,073,012 or 5,117,346, which are allcommonly assigned, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference in their entireties.

Typically, the two glass plates sandwich the electrochromic medium. Areflective coating may be deposited either on the rear-most surface awayfrom the viewer (to create a fourth surface reflector as is known in theart) or disposed on the front surface of the rear-most substrate (tocreate a third surface reflector as is known in the art). The substratescan be of equal or different glass thicknesses. The electrochromicmedium can be a liquid medium or a solid medium, such as a solid polymermatrix electrochromic medium such as is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/350,930, filed Jul. 12, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,154,306, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. For example, an interior rearview mirror can comprisea 1.1 mm thick front substrate, a 2.0 mm thick rear substrate, and analuminum silver, silver alloy, aluminum alloy, or the like highlyreflective metal film on the front surface of the rear substrate (i.e.third surface reflector) and the electrochromic medium may be solid suchas electrochromic Solid Polymer Matrix (SPM)™ comprising a colorchanging cross-linked polymer solid film. Most preferably, the frontsubstrate comprises a glass plate of thickness less than about 1.6 mm,most preferably about 1.1 mm thickness or lower, and the rear substratecomprises a glass plate of thickness equal to or greater than about 1.6mm, more preferably greater than about 1.8 mm thickness, and mostpreferably equal to or greater than about 2.0 mm thickness. Therear-most surface of the rear substrate (the fourth surface as known inthe mirror art) is reflector coated with a high reflecting metal filmsuch as of aluminum or silver, or an alloy of aluminum or silver. Mostpreferably, the front-most surface of the rear substrate (the thirdsurface as known in the mirror art) is reflector coated with a highreflecting metal film, such as of aluminum or silver, or an alloy ofaluminum or silver.

Optionally, the front surface of the front substrate (i.e. the firstsurface as known in the mirror art) can be coated with a surface coatingor otherwise modified so as to reduce the buildup of condensation ormist such as can occur in humid climates. For example, the front surfaceof the front substrate (which is the surface upon whichcondensation/mist might gather or which would be subject to raindropsshould the vehicle be a convertible and be driven with hood down duringrain) may be optionally coated with a water wetting characteristicmodification coating such as a hydrophilic coating such as aphotocatalytic hydrophilic coating system, such as is disclosed inJapanese Pat. Abstract JP11050006A, issued Feb. 23, 1999, entitled“PRETREATMENT OF SURFACE FORMING PHOTOCATALYTIC HYDROPHILIC FILM ANDCLEANING AGENT AND UNDERCOATING COMPOSITION USED THEREIN” to Mitsumasaet al. of Toto Ltd, and in JP10330131A, issued Dec. 15, 1998, entitled“HYDROPHILIC THIN FILM AND VEHICULAR MIRROR AND GLASS PRODUCT USING THESAME HYDROPHILIC THIN FILM” to Tsutomu et al. of Ichikoh Ind Ltd, and inJP10036144A, issued Feb. 10, 1998, entitled “ANTIFOGGING ELEMENT” toToru et al of Murakami Corporation, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Also,such wetting characteristic modification coatings and techniques, suchas photocatalytic hydrophilic coatings, can be used for the first(front-most) surface of a non-electrochromic reflective element, such asa prismatic interior mirror reflective element (and for the firstsurface of electrochromic exterior mirror reflective elements and ofmetal coated, such as chromium coated, exterior non-electrochromicmirror reflective elements).

Although locating the video screen behind the mirror reflector (andjuxtaposed with a window created therein by the removal of reflectorcoating at the local area where the video screen is dispose) hasadvantages such as ease of fabrication, it has disadvantages as well.For example, the weight of the video screen is typically borne, in suchthrough-the-mirror-reflector placements of the video screen, by themirror reflective element itself, thus possibly contributing to itsvibration. Also, when placed behind an electro-optic reflective, elementsuch as an electrochromic mirror element, dimming of the electro-opticmedium, such as an electrochromic medium, when glare is detected alsodims the image displayed by the video screen placed behind thereflective element and viewed therethrough. To overcome this, the imagebrightness of the video image can be increased to compensate for dimmingof the electrochromic element, for example, of the variable reflectanceelement. A suitable control to achieve this is described in U.S. Pat.No. 5,285,060 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,416,313, the entire disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

Optionally, and as shown in FIG. 3, interior mirror assembly 30comprises a mirror reflector element 34 (which can be a prismaticday/night manually adjustable mirror element or can be an electricallyvariable reflectance element such as an electrochromic mirror element)in a casing 32 that is pivotally adjustable about a mirror support arm38. Incorporated in casing 32, but separate from and independent ofmirror reflector element 34, is a video screen 36. Video screen 36 ispreferably located at the portion of casing 32 furthest from the seatinglocation of the vehicle driver when interior mirror assembly is mountedin the interior cabin of a vehicle (such as to a windshield or to aheader, as is known in the automotive mirror arts). By mounting videoscreen 36 separate from and independent of mirror reflector element 34,the disadvantages described above are overcome.

A preferred embodiment is shown in FIG. 4. Interior mirror assembly 40comprises a mirror reflector element 44 (which can be a prismaticday/night manually adjustable mirror element or can be an electricallyvariable reflectance element such as an electrochromic mirror element,and/or it can be a unit magnification, flat element, or a wide-angleoptical element, such as a convex or multiradius/aspheric element) in acasing 42 that is pivotally adjustable about a mirror support arm 48.Incorporated in casing 42, but separate from and independent of mirrorreflector element 44, is a video screen 46. Video screen 46 ispositioned to the right of mirror reflector element 44 when assembly 40is intended for mounting in a left-hand drive vehicle (and to the leftwhen for a right-hand drive vehicle). However, video screen 46 ismounted at an angle with respect to reflector element 44. Thus, andreferring to FIG. 4, plane AA of the video screen 46 forms an obtuseangle α to the plane BB of mirror reflector 44. By mounting video screen46 in assembly 40 at an angle to mirror reflector 44 and at the edge ofmirror reflector 44 further from the seating position of the driver inthe vehicle (interior assembly 40 would be thus be suitable for use in aleft-hand drive vehicle such as is used in the United States ofAmerica), the driver's readability of images displayed by video screen46 is enhanced, and the driver's use of the mirror reflector to viewrearward is unimpeded, and further reduction of the driver's forwardfield of view through the vehicle windshield is minimized. Angle α ispreferably greater than about 150 degrees and less than about 178degrees, more preferably greater than about 165 degrees and less thanabout 177 degrees, and most preferably greater than about 170 degreesand less than about 176 degrees.

As an alternate to mounting the video screen separate and independentfrom the reflector element and to its right as shown in FIG. 4, it canbe mounted to the left of the mirror reflector element. Thus, andreferring to FIG. 5, video screen 56 can optionally be mounted at theside of the interior mirror assembly 50 closer to the driver (interiorassembly 50 would be thus be suitable for use in a left-hand drivevehicle such as is used in the United States of America). Video screen56 is positioned to the left of mirror reflector element 54. However,interior mirror assembly 40 is preferred over interior mirror assembly50 since video screen 46, located furthest from the driver seatinglocation in the vehicle, will obstruct the driver's forward field ofview through the windshield less than video screen 56 of interior mirrorassembly 50.

Optionally, the video screen can be attached to the movable portion ofthe interior mirror assembly as a chin or gondola portion below themirror reflector, such as is shown in FIG. 6. Video screen 66 ispositioned below mirror reflector element 64 of interior mirror assembly60. Alternately, the video screen can be attached to the movable portionof the interior mirror assembly as an eyebrow portion above the mirrorreflector, such as is shown in FIG. 7. Video screen 76 is positionedabove mirror reflector element 74 of interior mirror assembly 70.

Optionally, the video screen can be canted at an angle towards thedriver in any of the embodiments illustrated in FIGS. 5-7 to achieve thebenefits discussed with regard to interior mirror assembly 40 in termsof readability by the driver of the image displayed on the video screen.Also, optionally, the video screen can be adapted so that its angle inthe interior mirror assembly with respect to that of the mirrorreflector is user adjustable so that a driver can adjust the angle ofcanting of the video screen towards the driver to suit his/herpreference. This adjustment can be made either manually and/or via amemory positioning system, as is known in the mirror arts, wherein astored preferred angle of canting for the video screen towards thedriver is electronically recalled from a memory.

An interior rearview mirror assembly 80 incorporating a plurality ofvideo screens is illustrated in FIG. 8. As shown in FIG. 8, interiormirror assembly 80 comprises a mirror reflector element 84 (which can bea prismatic day/night manually adjustable mirror element or can be anelectrically variable reflectance element such as an electrochromicmirror element) in a casing 82 that is pivotally adjustable about amirror support arm 88. Incorporated in casing 82, but separate from andindependent of mirror reflector element 84, is a first video screen 86and a second video screen 87. When interior mirror assembly is mountedin the interior cabin of a vehicle (such as to a windshield or to aheader, as is known in the automotive mirror arts), video screen 86 islocated at the portion of casing 82 closest to the seating location ofthe vehicle driver, and video screen 87 is located at the portion ofcasing 82 furthest from the seating location of the vehicle driver. Bymounting video screens 86, 87 separate from and independent of mirrorreflector element 84, the disadvantages described above, such asdeteriorated mirror reflector element vibration performance andincursion into the mirror reflector rearward field of view, areovercome. Also, by providing a video screen at one side of the mirrorreflector closest to the driver seating position (and thus closest tothe driver-side of the vehicle) and by providing a second video screenat the opposing side of the mirror reflector furthest from the driver(and thus closer to the passenger-side of the vehicle), an interiormirror assembly suitable to use with side-lane monitoring cameras isprovided. Mirror reflector 84 is sandwiched between the two videoscreens 86 and 87. Even in the event of loss of video image by videoscreen 86 and/or video screen 87, the driver can still use mirrorreflector 84 to see rearward as mirror reflector's 84 reflected image isnot lost, even in the event of a complete power loss in the vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 9, rear vision system 90 comprises an interior rearviewassembly 91 which comprises a mirror reflector element 94 (which can bea prismatic day/night manually adjustable mirror element or can be anelectrically variable reflectance element, such as an electrochromicmirror element) in a casing 92 that is pivotally adjustable about amirror support arm 98. Incorporated in casing 92, but separate from andindependent of mirror reflector element 94, are a first video screen 96and a second video screen 97. When interior mirror assembly 91 ismounted in the interior cabin of a vehicle (such as to a windshield orto a header, as is known in the automotive mirror arts), video screen 96is located at the portion of casing 92 closest to the seating locationof the vehicle driver, and video screen 97 is located at the portion ofcasing 92 furthest from the seating location of the vehicle driver.Video screen 96 connects via control 95 to a video camera 93 (preferablya CMOS camera) mounted on the exterior driver-side body of the vehiclesuch that camera 93 has a rearward field of view of the side lane of thevehicle adjacent to the driver's seating position. Video camera 93 sendssuch images of vehicles and the like approaching from the driver-siderear to control 95 whose output is displayed on video screen 96. Videoscreen 97 connects via control 99 to a video camera 100 (preferably aCMOS camera) mounted on the exterior passenger-side body of the vehiclesuch that camera 100 has a rearward field of view of the side lane ofthe vehicle adjacent to the front-passenger of the vehicle. Video camera100 sends such images of vehicles and the like approaching from thepassenger-side rear to control 99 whose output is displayed on videoscreen 97. By placing video screen 96 to the left of assembly 91 and byconnecting it to a camera that monitors the left side lane, and bycorrespondingly placing video screen 97 to the right of assembly 91 andby connecting it to a camera that monitors the right side lane, and byplacing a mirror reflector therebetween whose principal rearward fieldof view is directly rearward so as to view the lane that the vehicle istravelling in, an interior rearview mirror-mounted rear vision system isprovided that allows the driver to obtain nearly a 180 degrees rearwardfield of view, and to cognitively associate the left video image, themiddle mirror image, and the right video image with the respective leftside lane, middle rear lane, and right side lane. This physical andcognitive association of two video screens and one mirror reflectorelement to provide a rearward panoramic field of view that iscognitively interpretable by the driver renders rear vision system 90easy to use by drivers. Also, should an electronic failure in thevehicle lead to one or both of video screens 96, 97 not capable ofdisplaying a side lane image, the driver can still use the mirror imagefrom the mirror reflector element 94 (which can be either a fixedreflectivity mirror element, such as a second-surface coated prismaticmirror element, or an electrochromic mirror element that returns to ahigh reflectance state when unpowered, as is known in the mirror arts)for safe driving.

Mirror assembly 91 may include circuitry for mirror mounted videocameras, which are used to visually detect the presence of moisture onthe windshield and actuate windshield wipers accordingly, such asdescribed in U.S. application Ser. No. 08/621,863 filed Mar. 25, 1996,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,097,023, U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/599,979, filed Jun. 22, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,320,176, or U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/441,341, filed Nov. 16, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 7,339,149, or mirror mounted cameras for vehicle internal cabinmonitoring disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,877,897; 5,550,677 and5,760,962, commonly assigned, which are hereby incorporated herein byreference in their entireties, or mirror mounted cameras for rear visionsystems as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,959,367; 5,929,786; 5,949,331;5,914,815; 5,786,772; 5,798,575; 5,670,935; and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/375,315, filed Aug. 16, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,164;Ser. No. 09/304,201, filed May 3, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,198,409;Ser. No. 09/313,139, filed May 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,222,447;Ser. No. 09/776,625, filed Feb. 5, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,611,202;Ser. No. 09/304,201, filed May 3, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,198,409;Ser. No. 09/375,315, filed Aug. 16, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,164;Ser. No. 09/199,907 filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610;Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642;Ser. No. 09/372,915, filed Aug. 12, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,396,397;Ser. No. 09/300,201, filed May 3, 1999; and Ser. No. 09/313,139, filedMay 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,222,447, which are all commonlyassigned, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by referencein their entireties.

Also, for constructions such as in FIGS. 2-9, it is desirable that anysunvisor of the vehicle in which the interior mirror assemblyincorporating a video screen is mounted be adapted to accommodate theincorporation of the video device into the mirror assembly. For example,and referring to FIG. 2, the portion of the passenger-side sunvisor (notshown) that is closest to portion YY of assembly 20 can be notched orotherwise adapted so that the sunvisor can be pulled down by, forexample, a front-seat passenger, without the visor contacting orotherwise interfering with the portion of the interior mirror assemblyat YY.

The mirror-mounted video screen of the present invention (whether adisplay screen mounted at or part of rearview mirror assembly as shownin FIGS. 2-9 as part of the moveable housing that houses the mirrorreflector element, or as a module attached to the mirror supportmounting arm or attached to mirror button 16 a or attached to the mountof the mirror support arm to a windshield mounted button or a headermounted plate or attached to a mirror mounting button or a headermounting plate, of which examples of such suitable mounting arrangementscan be found in U.S. Pat. No. 5,487,522; 5,671,996; 5,820,097;5,615,857; 5,330,149; 5,100,095; 4,930,742; or 4,936,533 or U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/781,408, filed Jan. 10, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No.5,820,097, all commonly assigned, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated herein by reference in their entireties) can form a viewingscreen for a baby minder system, such as the vehicle interior monitoringsystem described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,877,897 and 5,760,962 or the rearvision system described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/361,814,filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642, and Ser. No.09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, U.S. patent application entitled “WIDEANGLE IMAGING SYSTEM”, filed 23, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610, andU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613, all of which are incorporated by reference intheir entireties herein. An interior surveillance system permits thedriver of the vehicle to observe behavior or the activities of babies orchildren or other passengers seated in the rear seat. This is especiallyadvantageous when the child or baby is in a rearward facing car seat,where the child or baby would ordinarily not be visible to the driverwhile driving. For example, a camera, such as a CMOS or CCD camera, canbe mounted to view the rear seat area of the vehicle so that the drivercan view what is occurring, such as in a rear seat mounted baby seat orwith a rear seat passenger, such as children. Preferably, to enableviewing of the rear seat occupant or occupants even by night, the targetfield of view of the camera may be illuminated in a manner that providesadequate visibility for the camera to discern what is occurring in therear seat in a darkened vehicle cabin but not illuminating in a mannerthat causes glare, distraction, and/or discomfort to any vehicleoccupants, including the driver and/or rear seat passengers. Forexample, such a rear seat monitoring camera illumination is preferablyachieved using directed low level non-incandescent light sources, suchas light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emitting material,electroluminescent sources (both organic and inorganic), and the like,and most preferably such non-incandescent sources are low power and aredirected low intensity sources, such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,938,321 and 6,139,172 and application Ser. No. 09/626,608, filed Jul.27, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,412,973, which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties. The baby minder camera may be mounted asa part of the rearview mirror assembly and, most preferably, may bemounted as a part of a roof area of the interior vehicle cabin such as aheader, including a front header of a roof or a rear header or a headerconsole of a roof. It may be desirable to mount a baby minder camera tothe rear header of a roof when it is desirable to view rear facing childsupport seats. Most preferably, a plurality of at least two, morepreferably at least four, and most preferably at least six LEDs (orsimilar low level, directed, low-current light sources such aselectroluminescent sources and organic light emitting sources) aremounted with a camera (preferably, such as to form a ring around thecamera) with the light projected from the individual LEDs directed to becoincident with the camera field of view and to illuminate the targetarea desired to be viewed. The LEDs being directed low level sourceswill not glare or cause discomfort to occupants when illuminated.Further, camera illumination sources can be illuminated whenever theignition switch is on to operate the vehicle or at least when theignition switch is placed in an “accessory on” position so that both thecamera and illumination lights are operating on vehicle battery powereven when parked. Alternately, the illumination lights can beoperational only when the baby minder camera is selected to beoperational. While it is preferred to use non-incandescent lights,incandescent light sources can be used, most preferably high intensity,low current incandescent light sources. For example, when the camera isactivated to view the rear seat or to view a baby seat or the like, thedome light in the vehicle, which typically comprises an incandescentlight source, can illuminate so that the rear seat area is illuminatedto assist visibility for the camera. A circuit or other device can beprovided that illuminates the dome light (or a similar rearseat-illuminating interior light source, such as a rail lamp or thelike) whenever the camera is selected to view the rear seat. Optionally,the dome light or similar interior light within the interior cabin, oncecaused to illuminate when the camera is activated, can cease toilluminate after a determined time interval (such as 5 seconds or tenseconds or longer) under the control of a timeout circuit or device. Byproviding a timeout, the driver can selectively view the status ofpassengers in the rear seat of the vehicle by selecting a baby-mindercamera or similar rear seat viewing function (such as by voice command,user-operated switch or the like). Upon selection of the camerafunction, whatever is being viewed on the video screen in the vehiclemay be interrupted (or superimposed over or the like), the interiorlight in the cabin (such as the dome light) will illuminate, a timeoutwill initiate, and the driver (or other front-seat occupant) can viewthe rear seat status for the duration of the timeout. Once the timeoutelapses, the interior light ceases to illuminate, and preferably, thecamera ceases to be activated and the video screen reverts to itspre-event status. Optionally, a reverse-aid rearward viewing camera canbe mounted to the rear of the vehicle in order to display to the driver,upon selecting a reverse gear, a field of view immediately rearward ofthe vehicle so as to assist the driver in reversing the vehicle. Suchvehicle reverse-aid camera systems are disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,201,642, and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/199,907, filedNov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610, and in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/313,139, filed May 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,222,447; Ser. No. 09/776,625, filed Feb. 5, 2001, now U.S. Pat. No.6,611,202, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein. For example, when the driver selects a reverse gear, a view ofthe back-seat of the vehicle is automatically replaced with a viewrearward of the vehicle provided by the rearward-facing reverse-aidcamera (typically mounted at the vehicle rear license plate area or thelike) and when reverse gear is disengaged, the view of the back-seat isonce again displayed at the display screen visible to the driver in theinterior cabin of the vehicle (such as at, on, or in the interiorrearview mirror assembly). Also, when a baby is small, a rear-facingchild seat is preferred (i.e. the child faces the rear of the vehiclecabin) whereas as the child grows, a forward-facing child seat ispreferred. In order to cater for forward-facing child seats versusrearward-facing child seats, two cameras can be mounted such as in theroof area of the vehicle. One forward viewing camera (i.e. viewingforward of the vehicle relative to the direction of forward motion ofthe vehicle) can be mounted at a roof location (such as above thevehicle rear window) to view a baby seated in a rear-facing baby seatand a second rearward viewing camera (i.e. viewing rearward of thevehicle relative to the direction of forward motion of the vehicle) canbe mounted at a roof location (such as above the vehicle frontwindshield or as part of the interior mirror assembly) to view a childseated in a forward-facing baby seat. A switch can be provided to allowthe driver to choose to use any one of the forward viewing camera andthe rearward viewing camera. Optionally and preferably from a costviewpoint, a single camera module can be provided that can connect toand/or dock into two or more spaced and separate camera module receivingstations. One (i.e. a first) camera module receiving station can behigh-mounted at a forward location in the vehicle cabin (such as in aheader console above and adjacent the front windshield or in theheadliner above and adjacent the front windshield or as part of theinterior rearview mirror assembly) and a second camera module receivingstation can be located at a rearward location in the vehicle cabin (suchas above and adjacent to the rear window, or at a position in theheadliner of the vehicle that is located above and rearward of the rearseat, or as part of a dome lamp or other interior lighting assembly,preferably a lighting assembly comprising a plurality of light emittingdiodes, and most preferably a lighting assembly comprising a pluralityof light emitting diodes comprising at least one white light emittingdiode) that is spaced and separate from the location of the first camerareceiving station. A single camera module can be provided that plugsinto, and electrically/electronically connects to, any one of the twocamera receiving stations provided. When the camera module is pluggedinto the first camera receiving station, the camera field of view isdirected rearwardly in the vehicle cabin to monitor a back seat area andthus monitor a child strapped in a forwardly-facing child seat and thelike. The camera receiving station provides power to the camera andreceives video signals generated by the camera. If, however, arearward-facing baby seat was mounted on the rear seat, the driver canunplug the camera module from the first camera receiving station andplug it into the second camera receiving station. When plugged into thesecond camera receiving station, the camera lens faces forwardly in thecabin and its field of view is directed to capture and hence display therearward-facing baby strapped in the rearwardly-facing baby (or child)seat. Optionally, a plurality of camera receiving stations (such asthree or four or more) can be provided to allow a single camera bemounted at a plurality of locations in a vehicle cabin with its field ofview selected to be directed to a specific portion of the vehicle cabinby plugging the camera module into a specific one of the availableplurality of camera receiving stations. This allows a “plug and view”capability for the vehicle user. As an alternate, or as a supplement, toa plurality of camera receiving stations, a camera can be movablymounted on a rail that also functions as a power strip that is affixedto an interior vehicular cabin structure such as a headliner of thevehicle or to a window of a vehicle (such as is disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/895,729, filed Jul. 17, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No.6,019,411, or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/466,003, filed Dec.17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,231,111, the entire disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated by reference herein). Thus, for example, acamera can move along a channel in a rail attached to a vehicle cabinroof headliner. When stopped at a particular position along the rail,the camera module can receive power input from, and deliver signaloutput to, the rail such as via conductive brush connectors, such ascarbon brushes. Alternately, the camera module can transmit video imagedata wirelessly within the cabin, such as by infrared or byradio-frequency transmission (such as part of a short range, local RFbroadcast network operating under a BLUETOOTH protocol available fromMotorola of Schaumberg III.), to a cabin-mounted receiver (or externallyof the vehicle to a remote receiver such as might be used in a cabinsecurity monitoring camera-based system that, for example, monitors theinterior vehicle cabin while the vehicle is parked in order to detectintrusion by an unauthorized party). Optionally, the camera modulemounted in the vehicle cabin is detachably mounted so that it can beremoved from the vehicle both as an anti-theft device and in order toallow the camera to be used outside the vehicle such as in a child'scrib in a home. In this regard, a video camera (such as the detachablevehicle camera module) can be mounted at a distance from the vehiclesuch as in the like of a child's bedroom in a house to monitor, forexample, a child sleeping in a crib, and its video image can bewirelessly transmitted (such as by radio-frequency transmission) ortransmitted via a wireless INTERNET linkage to the vehicle so the driverand/or other occupants of the vehicle can view the video image of thechild in the crib at home on a vehicular video screen, preferably on ascreen mounted at, on or in the interior mirror assembly, while thevehicle is located and operating at a distance from the location of thehome where the camera generating the video image is located. Also, thecamera used in the applications described above and below can be anautofocusing and/or autoexposure camera using an autofocusing lenssystem and/or an autoexposure system (such as via an automaticallyadjustable iris system). Also, optionally, the field of view of the lensof the camera can be adjusted to view a multitude of locations in thevehicle cabin such as by a joystick-control or the like.

Note that a driver may not want to continually view a baby or infant orchild being monitored by the baby camera system of the presentinvention. Thus, optionally, the image of the baby/infant/child, asdisplayed by a video display of this present invention, can deactivateafter a determined time interval (for example, after about 1 minute ofdisplay) and be reactivated by the driver actuating an inputbutton/stalk/touch screen and/or issuing a voice command. Also,optionally, the baby camera only actuates when the baby seat belt isclasped (as otherwise monitoring an empty seat may be distracting andwasteful). Alternately, the baby minder system may automatically displayan image of the baby seat whenever the baby seat clasp in not clasped orif the baby seat itself is improperly installed to provide an alert tothe driver that an unsafe condition may exist (such as may exist shoulda child unclasp a baby seat safety belt while the vehicle is in motion).

Light emitting sources, such as light emitting diodes, can be used toprovide lighting for any camera that feeds an image to themirror-mounted video screen. Light emitting diodes can be used toprovide illumination in various colors such as white, amber, yellow,green, orange red, blue, or their combination, or the like may be used.Alternately, other light emitting elements can be used to provideillumination for any camera that feeds an image to the mirror-mountedvideo screen, such as incandescent sources, fluorescent sourcesincluding cold-cathode fluorescent sources, electroluminescent sources(both organic and inorganic) such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,938,321 and 6,139,172, and application Ser. No. 09/626,608, filed Jul.27, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,412,973, which are incorporated herein byreference in their entireties, and in such as is disclosed inco-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010, filed Dec. 17,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein, and in co-assigned U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,428,172, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/585,379, filed Jun.1, 2000, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein.

The light source can include a lens, which may be supplied as asegmented lens, a prismatic lens, or a Fresnel lens, which may be clearor tinted, may be provided over such light source.

The concepts of this present invention can be used with interiorrearview mirror assemblies which are equipped with a variety of featuresand accessories, such as a home access transmitter, garage door openertransmitters, a high/low (or daylight running beam/low) headlampcontroller, a hands free phone attachment, a video telephone function, aremote keyless entry receiver, a compass, a seat occupancy detection,map lights or multiple reading lights such as described in commonlyassigned U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,000,823; 5,669,698; 5,820,245; 5,671,996;5,813,745; 5,178,448; 4,733,336 and 4,646,210 and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/371,871, filed Aug. 6, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,183,199, and Ser. No. 09/712,742, filed Nov. 14, 2000, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,331,066; the disclosures of all of which are herein incorporatedin their entireties. Additional features and accessories that may beincorporated into the rearview mirror assemblies include: A tripcomputer, an intrusion detector, displays indicating, for examplepassenger air bag status, including information displays such as a PSIR(Passenger Side Inflatable Restraint) display, an SIR (Side-AirbagInflatable Restraint), compass/temperature display, a tire pressurestatus display or other desirable displays and the like, such as thosedescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. For example, rearview mirrorassemblies may include: Antennas, including GPS or cellular phoneantennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,971,552; 6,019,475; andU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/477,539, filed Jan. 4, 2000, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,217,181; a communication module, such as disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,798,688; displays such as shown in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,530,240; 6,087,953 or in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filedFeb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613; blind spot detection systems,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,929,786 or 5,786,772; transmittersand/or receivers, such as garage door openers, a digital network, suchas described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575; a high/low head lampcontroller, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,093; a memorymirror system, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,176; ahands-free phone attachment, a video device for internal cabinsurveillance and/or video telephone function, such as describedpreviously including such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and5,877,897 and application Ser. No. 09/433,467, now U.S. Pat. No.6,326,613; a remote keyless entry receiver; map lights, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,321; 5,813,745; 5,820,245; 5,673,994;5,649,756; or 5,178,448; microphones and/or speakers, such as disclosedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642, and Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610; a compass, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,924,212; seat occupancy detector; a trip computer; an ONSTARSystem or the like, with all of the referenced patents and applicationsbeing commonly assigned, the disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties.

The interior rearview mirror assembly may also include acompass/temperature and a clock display, fuel level display, and othervehicle status and other information displays. Furthermore, informationdisplays may be incorporated which provide information to the driver oroccupants of the vehicle, such as warnings relating to the status of thepassenger airbag. In commonly assigned application Ser. No. 09/244,726,filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613, information displaysare provided which include information relating to vehicle or enginestatus, warning information, and the like such as information relatingto oil pressure, fuel remaining, time, temperature, compass headings forvehicle direction, and the like, the disclosure of which is incorporatedherein by reference in its entirety. The passenger side air bag on/offsignal may be derived from various types of seat occupancy detectorssuch as by video surveillance of the passenger seat as disclosed incommonly assigned U.S. Pat. Application Ser. No. PCT/US94/01954, filedFeb. 25, 1994, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference, or by ultrasonic or sonar detection, infrared sensing,pyrodetection, weight detection, or the like. Alternately,enablement/displayment of the passenger side air bag operation can becontrolled manually such as through a user operated switch operated withthe ignition key of the vehicle in which assembly 10 is mounted asdescribed in commonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.08/799,734, filed Feb. 12, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,786,772, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety.In addition, the interior rearview mirror assemblies may includeelectronic and electric devices, including a blind spot detectionsystem, such as described above or as the type disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 08/799,734, filed Feb. 12, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No.5,786,772, or rain sensor systems, such as described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/599,979, filed Jun. 22, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No.6,320,176; Ser. No. 09/530,306, filed Apr. 27, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No.6,353,392, including rain sensor systems which include windshieldcontacting rain sensors such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,844, ornon-windshield contacting rain sensors, such as described in PCTInternational Application PCT/US94/05093, published as WO 94/27262 onNov. 24, 1994, the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein in their entireties.

The mirror-mounted video screen can display the output from a rearvision back-up camera, such as described above or disclosed inapplication Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No.6,717,610, and Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,201,642, commonly assigned, the disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties, along with vehicleinstrument status, such as a vehicle information display, such asinformation relating to fuel gauge levels, speed, climate controlsetting, GPS directional instructions, tire pressure status, instrumentand vehicle function status, and the like.

Optionally, and as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172, and Ser.No. 09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000, the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein, the interior rearview mirrorassembly may comprise accessories that can be docked to the assembly forpurpose of storage, battery charging, electrical powering, data inputand/or output, and similar functions. Such dockable features aredetachable by a user of the vehicle from the mirror assembly and areoptionally removable from the vehicle for use outside the vehicle. Forexample, a dockable feature may comprise a light assembly, such as aflashlight assembly, or may comprise a cellular phone, a phone module,pager, INTERNET connector, or the like. In the case of docking atelecommunication device such as a phone or a pager, the interior mirrorassembly is preferably adapted to connect to the telecommunicationdevice such as a phone in a manner such that the vehicle control systemwill recognize the phone and, optionally, direct incoming phone calls tospeakers, which may be located in the mirror assembly or elsewhere inthe vehicle. In this manner, the dockable phone may provide removablehands-free phone function. Furthermore, in one form, the phone mayautomatically be activated by the occupant's voice or a switch or by thedocking of the phone onto the mirror assembly. In this manner, the phonemay be removed when the occupant exits the car for normal remote use ormay be docked for hands-free use.

Preferably, the interior rearview mirror assembly includes a powersource, such as a recharger that recharges the battery or batteries inany dockable accessory, which is stored or attached thereto. Aspreviously noted, such dockable accessories can include pagers, cellularphones, flash lights, or the like. In this manner, the dockableaccessory can be docked for recharging. In the case of the lightassembly, the light assembly can be docked for use as a map readinglight or the like. When undocked, the light assembly (which includesinternal batteries) may be used as a flashlight, as previously noted.

Alternately, the phone module of a cellular or digital phone may bedocked on the interior mirror assembly such that the vehicle systemcouples the phone module to the speakers and microphones to provide ahands-free phone system. In this manner, the module can be quickly andeasily docked and, further, removed for replacement into the phonehousing. Furthermore, a hands-free phone system may be coupled to one ormore of the video screens incorporated into the interior rearview mirrorassembly to form a teleconferencing system, with the video screendisplaying images of the one or more of the parties. Optionally, theinterior rearview mirror assembly may incorporate a camera so thatbi-directional teleconferencing can be achieved. It should beunderstood, that any one of the microphones, speakers, video cameras,and the video screen may be incorporated into the mirror casing (themovable portion of the mirror assembly), the mounting bracket, a podmounted to the mounting bracket (the fixed portion of the mirrorassembly), or a header. In preferred form, however, as described inreference to the previous embodiments, the video screen or screens arepreferably incorporated into the mirror assembly casing. Reference forsuch video-telephone applications is made to U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 08/918,772, filed Aug. 25, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,886,the disclosure of which is herein incorporated by reference in itsentirety.

In addition, when either the phone or phone module is docked, as cellphone calls become traceable through a global positioning system (GPS),emergency phone calls may be forwarded or routed to the correctemergency agency for that location. Since each phone has a uniqueidentifier, GPS can identify a phone and, further, identify the locationof that phone. For example, the phone or mirror assembly may include aseparate emergency button which can be activated by an occupant of thevehicle to notify local emergency agencies that an occupant of thevehicle is in need for emergency assistance. For example, tracing of thephone may be incorporated into or used in conjunction with a vehiclenavigation system, such as described in provisional application Ser. No.60/131,593, filed Apr. 29, 1999, and Ser. No. 09/561,023, filed Apr. 28,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,553,308, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. Where the vehicle is equipped with a GPSsystem, the GPS system can monitor the movement of the vehicle, and byknowing that the vehicle has moved from one location to another, andbecause the GPS knows the geographic position of both locations relativeto each other, the navigation system can determine the directionalheading of the vehicle, and furnish this as a compass heading signal fordisplay as a compass display such as at the interior mirror assembly.

A variety of electrical and electronic features can be incorporated intothe interior rearview mirror assembly, such as those disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,326,613, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/734,440,filed Dec. 11, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,366,213, commonly assigned,which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Forexample, a microphone or a plurality of microphones may be incorporated,preferably to provide hands-free input to a wireless telecommunicationsystem such as the ONSTAR™ system in use in General Motors vehicles.Most preferably such microphones provide input to an audio system thattransmits and communicates wirelessly with a remote transceiver,preferably in voice recognition mode. Such systems are described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,243,003, the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. Microphones, sound processing systems, and otheraccessories suitable to use in the mirror systems of the presentinvention are disclosed in co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/466,010, filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975; Ser. No.09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377; Ser. No.09/382,720, filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,243,003; Ser. No.09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172; Ser. No.09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613; and Ser.No. 09/448,700, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925, theentire disclosures of all of which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein.

In this regard it may be desirable to use audio processing techniquessuch as digital sound processing, to ensure that vocal inputs to thevehicular audio system are clearly distinguished from cabin ambientnoise, such as from wind noise, HVAC, and the like. Also, noisecancellation techniques, such as destructive interference, canadvantageously be used whereby the signal as picked up by the microphoneis processed, the human vocal signal is distinguished from the noisesignal, and whereby the noise signal is fed back 180° out of phase withitself in order to cancel out the noise by destructive interference andso enhance the vocal signal to background noise ratio.

Preferably the microphone interfaces to an audio system that includes ananalog to digital converter and/or a digital to analog converter for thepurpose of converting the analog output of the microphone to a digitalsignal for input to a digital sound processor and for conversion of thedigital output of a digital sound processor to an analog signal forwireless transmission to a remote transceiver. Digital sound processingtechniques may be used to enhance the vocal signal to background noisediscrimination ratio. Also, both analog and digital audio filteringtechniques can be used to enhance the vocal to background noise ratio,and so assist clarity of transmission and/or receipt at a remotereceiver and so improve accuracy in voice recognition mode. Also,physical techniques such as sound insulation, acoustic wave guides,angling of microphones to selectively detect speech versus backgroundnoise, and/or use of a directed microphone directed to a potential humanspeaker in conjunction with a more omnidirectional microphone intendedto detect background noise can be used. An adaptive signal processingsystem can be used to enhance vocal to noise ratio. Mechanicalcancellation of ambient noise can be provided, as can a noise cancelingpressure gradient microphone, preferably in conjunction with acousticports including voice and noise ports. Such a system is disclosed inWorld Pat. publication WO 9817046 of Apr. 23, 1998, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As indicated above, the interior rearview mirror assembly including atleast one video screen is part of an interior rearview mirror systemthat includes at least one camera for providing an image of an area notviewable by the reflector element of the interior rearview mirrorassembly when it is adjusted for driving conditions. Preferably, thecamera may be directed toward the rear seats of the vehicle so as tofunction as a child minder. The portion of the vehicle being viewed bythe camera (preferably a CCD and, most preferably, a solid state CMOScamera) is preferably illuminated. Preferably, the video cameraselected, such as a CMOS camera, is sensitive in the near-infraredregion and most preferably thus has at least some night visioncapability. Most preferably, the illumination is provided (preferably,mounted at and illuminating from the mounting site of the camera itself)by one or more near-infrared illumination sources, such as lightemitting diodes (such as red or orange light emitting diodes or IRemitting diodes) which emit efficiently in the near-infrared portion(wavelengths from approximately 0.75 microns to about 1.5 microns), butwhich do not emit efficiently in the visible portion (wavelengths belowapproximately 0.75 microns) of the electromagnetic spectrum. IR-emittingdiodes suitable to illuminate an interior cabin portion of a vehicle,such as a baby seat mounted on a rear seat, for use in conjunction witha camera capturing a video image of that portion, are available fromLUMEX Incorporated of Palatine, Ill. For example, a plurality of atleast two, and preferably at least four, LUMEX OED-EL-1L2 IR-emittingdiodes can be used to illuminate a vehicle portion by a video camera(preferably a solid-state CMOS multi-pixel-array camera that, mostpreferably, does not include an infrared filter over its lens). TheLUMEX OED-EL-1L2 IR-emitting diode has a peak radiation output at around940 mm, and is provided as a T-5 mm leaded case with a clear epoxy lens,and operates at a forward current of up to 100 milli-amps. Therefore, alocal area of the interior cabin of the vehicle (such as an areaoccupied by a child seat) may be illuminated with near-IR radiation in arange which the camera is sensitive to, such that the system can form aclear image of the area on the display, while the cabin is notilluminated with visible light which, at night, may be sufficient tocause glare or discomfort to the driver and/or passengers in theilluminated area. Also, when using such low-level lighted, directedlight sources such as LED's to illuminate the portion of the vehiclecabin being imaged by an in-cabin camera or cameras, the like of a childsleeping in a child seat will not be disturbed by the incident lightbeam, particularly when its emitted intensity is principally in theinfrared region that is invisible to the human eye.

Also, multiple images can optionally be displayed in the video screen ofthe current invention. Thus, for example, should the video screen bedisplaying an image relating to a GPS system, and should the driver wantto view the image from an in-cabin camera that views a baby or childseat on a rear seat, the driver can select the baby/child monitoringimage as a secondary image displayed on the mirror-located video screen.Such use of a picture-in-a-picture (or PIP) allows multiple images to beviewed by the driver and/or occupants of the vehicle.

In addition, the interior rearview mirror assembly may incorporate oneor more user actuatable buttons or the like for activating the variousaccessories housed in the assembly, for example an ONSTAR system,HOMELINK® system, a remote transaction system, or the like. For example,by way of reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, one or more user actuatablebuttons may be mounted at the chin area (FIG. 6) or eyebrow area (FIG.7) for actuating the video screen or for selecting or scrolling betweendisplays or for activating, for example, a light, including a map lightwhich may be incorporated into the mirror casing. Furthermore, a dimmingswitch may be incorporated into the casing to provide adjustment to thebrightness of the video screen.

FIG. 10 is a schematic of a further embodiment of this invention.Vehicle rear monitoring system 110 comprises a rear facing camera 114mounted on the rear of a vehicle and having a field of view immediatelyto the rear of the vehicle in order to function as a reversing aid, suchas is disclosed in rear vision system described in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/361,814 filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,201,642, and Ser. No. 09/199,907 filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,717,610, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filedNov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613, all of which are incorporatedby reference in their entireties herein. Rear facing video camera 114can optionally include a night-vision capability, such as can beprovided via a microbolometer array, as is known in the art. Note thatsince rear-facing camera 114 will have a portion exposed to the outdoorelements such as rain, ice, snow, road splash, dirt etc., it isdesirable that a cleaning means be included to maintain any lens/lenscover clean/contaminant-free. For example, use of vectored airflow canbe used to blow away any accumulated rain drops etc. on the lens/lenscover. Thus, the camera assembly, and its installation into the rear ofthe vehicle, can be constructed so as to include air channeling elementssuch as baffles to channel airflow over the rear-facing lens portion,and so remove water drops therefrom. A lens heater (such as a glassplate coated with a transparent resistive coating such as indium tinoxide or doped tin oxide) can be included to defog/de-ice the cameralens. Alternately, or in addition, a mechanical wiper can be provided.Also, a lens cover can be provided that mechanically removes only whenthe rear-facing camera is accessed to view rearward, so as to minimizethe time that the lens is exposed to the outdoor elements. Thus, forexample, a metal or plastic shield or shutter can be disposed over thecamera lens when the camera is not in use (such as when the vehicle isparked or when the vehicle is driving forward). However, when the engineis operating, and reverse gear of the vehicle transmission system isengaged by the driver, the cover over (and protecting) the camera lensis mechanically opened/removed (such as by rotating out of the way) toexpose the lens of the camera and to allow the camera view rearwardly.Once reverse gear is disengaged, the mechanical shutter closes over thecamera lens, protecting it once again from the outdoor elements. Output113 of camera 114 is provided as an input to control 112. System 110also includes an object-monitoring sensor 118 (preferably, an ultrasonicsensor such as is known in the art, or a radar sensor or an infraredsensor, or the like, such as is known in the art). Object monitoringsensor 118 generates an output 117 indicative of detection of an objectrearward of the vehicle, and preferably includes a measure of thedistance of that detected object from the rear of the vehicle. Output117 is also provided to control 112. Control generates a video outputsignal 111 which is provided as an input to video screen 116, whichpreferably is mounted at, on, or within the interior rearview mirrorassembly in the vehicle, such as described for FIGS. 1 through 9 above.The image on the screen generated thereby includes a video view rearwardof the vehicle, and also preferably includes electronically generatedindicia overlaying the video image on the video screen and indicatingthe distance of detected objects (such as via a graphic display or viaan alphanumeric display in feet/inches) and/or highlighting ofobstacles/objects that a reversing vehicle is in jeopardy of collidingwith (such as a child or a barrier). For example, red highlighting canbe used, or a screen portion can strobe/flash to draw the driver'sattention to an object in the screen. Also, control 112 can provide anaudible output signal 115 to speaker 119 that audibly alerts the driverthat the vehicle is reversing closer and closer to a rear-situatedobject. The combination of a video reverse-aid system with an audiblereverse-aid system based off an object detection system such as anultrasonic obstacle detection system is a significant advance overreversing systems known to date, and particularly with distance orsimilar graphics overlaying the video image of the rearward scene.

Preferably, the video screens used in this present invention arepixelated liquid crystal displays, or most preferably, are pixelatedemitting displays such as field emission displays or plasma displays orelectroluminescent displays such as organic electroluminescent displays.Alternately, a cathode ray tube video screen can be used. Also note, asdescribed above, the display on the video screen can be a reconfigurabledisplay capable of displaying a plurality of vehicle functions. Also,the field of view of any camera inside or outside the vehicle can befixed, or it can be variable such as by manipulating a joystick or thelike. For example, a manual control to move the field of view of thecamera and/or its focus and/or its zoom can be included in the joystickor similar controls conventionally provided to adjust outside sideviewmirror reflectors.

Also, dynamic color selection can be used in operating the videodisplay. Also, optionally, a Kopin display, as known in the art, can beused. Optionally, the electronics to generate an image can be locatedat, on or in the interior mirror assembly, and an image can be projectedfrom the interior mirror assembly toward the vehicle windshield forviewing by the driver of the vehicle by looking at or through thevehicle windshield.

Note that communication between any camera and the display screen can beby wire (such as a direct wire connection or via an optical fiber link)or via a bus system (such as a CAN or LIN system, as known in the arts)or wirelessly such as by IR or RF communication (such as using a localarea RF broadcast network such as the BLUETOOTH protocol from Motorola).

Also, to minimize cost in the system, the video screen can connect to acontrol that provides a direct row/column drive to the pixelated arrayof the video screen; and with the control itself receiving a directrow/column feed from the pixelated array of the camera (such as a CMOScamera) used to capture the image desired displayed on the video screen.Row and column drivers for the video screen can be included in the videoscreen package itself, such as via flexible circuitry attached to theback of the video screen element (typically a glass element) itself.

Also, because ambient light washout can be a problem for amirror-mounted video display (or any other video display of the presentinvention), a contrast enhancement filter can be disposed over the videoscreen (or incorporated into its construction) to increase the contrastratio between the video image and ambient light. Optionally,anti-reflective coatings/films/layers can be used to reduce surfacereflections off the video screen. Suitable anti-reflectivecoatings/films/layers are known in the art and can include diffusersurface layers and interference layers. Optionally, an electricallyvariable contrast enhancement filter can be used overlying the videoscreen, such as an electro-optic (preferably electrochromic) contrastenhancement filter.

Also, optionally, a video screen of a video display of the presentinvention can attach as a removable pod or attachment member to themounting point of an interior mirror assembly that mounts to the vehiclewindshield or header. Thus, a rearview mirror-mounted video screensystem can comprise an interior rearview mirror assembly that mounts viaa mirror mount to a mounting button that is adhesively attached to avehicle windshield. The video screen is housed in a casing, whichattaches, via an attachment element to the mirror mount. Preferably, theattachment of the casing to the mirror assembly is via a detachableattachment (such as a snap, clip or removable screw connection) so thatthe casing can be attached/detached as desired. Alternately, the casingcan attach to the button, or to a separate mounting element attached tothe windshield. Also, preferably, the plane of the video screen iscanted/angled towards the viewing position of the driver (or can becanted/angled by rotation about a swivel point) when the system isoperated in a vehicle so that the driver can readily view imagesdisplayed on the video screen.

Also, optionally, a video screen displaying an image of the rearwardscene of the vehicle, and preferably displaying a panoramic image suchas described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,670,935 and 5,550,677 and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No.6,717,610, and Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,201,642, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference in their entireties, can be used instead of a conventionalmirror reflector. In the event that power is lost to the video screen orif there is an electronic fault in the video system that is viewing rearapproaching vehicles in side lanes and/or in the rear lane, then asupplementary non-electronic rearview mirror reflective element can beprovided to enable the driver to see rearward. For example, the videoscreen that constitutes the electronic, camera-based rear vision elementcan be detachably mounted within the interior cabin of the vehicle at alocation usually occupied by a conventional interior mirror assembly. Inthe event of loss of image due to power failure or other cause, thedriver can reach up to and detach the video rear vision element (that isprovided in a detachable module for this purpose) leaving behind amirrored reflective element (such as a silvered glass substrate or achromium coated glass substrate, as known in the mirror arts) that has afield of view rearward of the vehicle. Thus, the driver simply removesthe failed video element (for later repair) and drives temporarily withthe non-electronic conventional mirrored element that had been disposedunder the video element for this purpose. Alternately, an auxiliaryconventional mirrored element can be located within the housing thathouses the video element. The auxiliary conventional mirrored elementcan be, for example, a pendant accessory such as described in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/448,700, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,329,925, and Ser. No. 09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000, whichare herein incorporated by reference in their entireties. When needed,it can be pulled out to allow the driver to use the non-video reflectiveelement (which may be a prismatic mirror element or an electrochromicmirror element) to see rearward in the event of failure of the videoelement. Alternately, the housing that houses the video element (whichoccupies a position in the interior cabin usually occupied by thereflective element of an interior rearview mirror assembly) canoptionally swivel 180 degrees about its adjustable attachment to the armthat mounts the video-element containing housing to the windshield or tothe header of the vehicle. A mirror reflective element (such as metalcoated substrate such as a silvered glass substrate) can be located onthe side of the housing opposite to that of the video element. Thus,when the housing is rotated 180 degrees, the mirror reflective element(such as a silvered glass substrate) now faces rearward of the vehicle,and the driver can use this non-video mirror reflector element for safedriving. When facing forward of the vehicle, the mirror reflectiveelement can be covered by a removable plate or a tape in order to maskits presence when not in use. Once swiveled around, the masking plate ortape can be removed to reveal the mirrored reflective surface.

Preferably, a cellular phone system, and most preferably a video phonesystem including a video screen at the interior rearview mirrorassembly, is packaged into the interior mirror assembly, includingmicrophone(s) and digital sound processor such as are disclosed inco-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/446,010, filed Dec. 17,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein.

Also, optionally, a video screen and/or a camera useful in this presentinvention can be located on the interior mirror assembly (such as in apod attaching to bracket of the interior mirror assembly) or elsewhere,high-mounted at the front of the vehicle cabin such as in the regionbetween the mirror attachment point to the windshield to the headlinerabove or at the joint between the windshield and the headliner, or itcan be located as part of the instrument panel or as part of or adjacentto a front body pillar such as the A-pillar in the interior cabin, andsuch as is disclosed in U.S. patent application entitled “REARVIEWMIRROR ASSEMBLY WITH UTILITY FUNCTIONS”, filed by Barry W. Hutzel etal., on Jun. 1, 2000, which is incorporated herein in its entirety. Insome vehicles, and particularly in larger vehicles such as sportsutility vehicles, minivans and the like, it is preferable to mount thein-vehicle video screen to the front windshield at a location adjacentto but separate from the interior mirror assembly. Thus, and referringto FIG. 11, windshield-mounted video display system 1100 includesinterior mirror assembly 1102 that is attached to windshield 1104 by awindshield mount button (adhesively attached itself to the windshieldby, for example, a silicone adhesive or a polyvinyl butyral adhesive ora structural adhesive such as a modified epoxy) as is known in the artand such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,587,236, the entiredisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. Videoscreen 1106 attaches to windshield 1104 at a location adjacent to andabove the attachment location of mirror assembly 1102. Video screen 1106is centrally and high mounted on windshield 1104 in the region betweenthe mirror assembly 1102 and the windshield/header joint 1108 (thattypically includes the shadeband region 1110). At least one video screenmounting member (such as video screen mounting members 1212, 1212′ ofFIG. 12) can be attached (preferably adhesively attached by thewindshield manufacturer by, for example, a silicone adhesive or apolyvinyl butyral adhesive or a structural adhesive such as a modifiedepoxy) to the inner surface of the windshield 1204 and can be adapted tobe received by complementary mounting structures on video screenassembly 1206 (shown in phantom), which in the illustrated embodimentare located above interior rearview mirror assembly 1202. Thus, and asshown in FIG. 13, system 1300 includes a video screen assembly 1306which mounts to windshield 1304 below windshield/header interface 1308at a location separate from but adjacent to the mounting of interiorrearview mirror assembly 1309 to windshield 1304, and at a location thatis central and high on windshield 1304 and thus a convenient locationfor viewing by a driver and/or a front-seat passenger (or a rear-seatpassenger) of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment, rearviewmirror assembly 1309 is mounted by a support with dual pivot joints 1302to hereby permit repositioning of assembly 1309.

Preferably, and as shown in FIG. 14, system 1400 includes a videodisplay assembly 1406 that attaches to windshield 1404 by a pivotalconnection 1415 so that the orientation of video screen housing 1424,that houses video screen 1422, can be adjusted by the driver (or byanother occupant of the vehicle) to suit his/her preference, body size,seating position and the like. As shown in FIG. 14, video screenassembly 1406 attaches to video screen windshield-mounting element 1416via video screen mount 1419. Preferably, this attachment comprises adetachable mount that allows video assembly 1406 to be attached ordetached from mounting element 1416 (such as during installation orduring service). Most preferably, a breakaway joint is provided suchthat video assembly 1406 breaks away from mounting element 1416 shouldit be impacted such as during an accident. Pivot connection 1415includes a video screen support arm 1418 and two pivot joints 1420,1420′, which are provided to allow adjustment of video screen housing1424 (and video screen support arm 1418) to suit a user's desiredviewing angle for video screen 1422. In the illustrated embodiment,video display assembly is mounted to windshield 1404 above interiorrearview mirror assembly 1402. For the pivotal mounting of the videoscreen to the windshield, it is preferable to use mounting buttons,mounting brackets, detachable mounts, support arms and pivot elementsalready in common use for pivotal mounting of interior mirrorassemblies. Such mirror-mounting components are economically fabricatedin great volume, are automaker approved, are capable of pivotallysupporting 100-600 grams, and more of weight, and meet automakerspecifications and consumer requirements. Suitable components forpivotal mounting of the video screen to windshield (or alternately, tothe header region of the interior cabin of the vehicle) are disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 4,930,742; 5,487,522; 5,487,522; 5,820,097; 5,615,857;5,330,149; 5,100,095 and 4,936,533, the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein.

A single-pivot joint (often referred to in the mirror-art as asingle-ball connection as opposed to the two-ball connection of thevideo screen assembly mounting of FIG. 14) may optionally be used formounting a video screen to a windshield (or to a header region). Thus,and referring to FIG. 15, video screen housing 1524 of video screenassembly 1506 pivots about single pivot joint 1520.

Note that any wiring or cabling required for operation of the videoscreen of the pivotally-mounted video screen can be passed through themounting bracket/support arm/ball joints as is conventional forelectrically-operated interior rearview mirror assemblies.

For particular applications, it is desirable to use more than onewindshield-mounted video screen. Referring to FIG. 16, system 1600 twovideo screens 1606, 1607 which are attached to the cabin-facing innersurface of windshield 1604. Video screen 1606 is located closer todriver-side exterior mirror assembly 1640, and video screen 1607 islocated closer to passenger-side exterior mirror assembly 1650. Videoscreen 1606 is located above, adjacent to but biased to the left (i.e.towards the driver in a left-hand-drive vehicle) of interior mirrorassembly 1602 and video screen 1607 is located above, adjacent to butbiased to the right (i.e. towards the front passenger-side in aleft-hand-drive vehicle) of interior mirror assembly 1602. Interiormirror assembly 1602 is a conventional mirror assembly such as aprismatic mirror assembly or, more preferably, an electro-optic mirrorassembly such as an electrochromic mirror assembly. Driver-side exteriormirror assembly 1640 includes a video camera 1646 that captures arearward field of view. This rearward field of view of camera 1646 canbe of rear approaching traffic adjacent to and/or behind the vehicleequipped with video screen 1606 to which camera 1646 feeds its imageoutput. This rearward field of view of camera 1646 may be directedspecifically to capture a supplemental rearward field of view to that ofdriver-side exterior mirror reflective element 1642 (such as of ablind-spot, as described below), or may be directed to view further backalong the highway so as to replicate/extend, and even replace, the fieldof view of driver-side exterior reflective element 1642.

Passenger-side exterior mirror assembly 1650 includes a video camera1656 that captures a rearward field of view. This rearward field of viewof camera 1656 can be of rear approaching traffic adjacent to and/orbehind the vehicle equipped with video screen 1607 to which camera 1656feeds its image output. This rearward field of view of camera 1656 maybe directed specifically to capture a supplemental rearward field ofview to that of passenger-side exterior mirror reflective element 1652(such as of a blind-spot, as described below), or may be directed toview further back along the highway so as to replicate/extend, and evenreplace, the field of view of driver-side exterior reflective element1652.

By displaying a rearward image captured by driver-side camera 1646 onvideo screen 1606, and by displaying a rearward image captured bypassenger-side camera 1656 on video screen 1607, and by mounting videoscreen 1606 closer to the driver-side and by mounting video screen 1607closer to the passenger-side, the driver can associate the imagesdisplayed by video screen 1606 with driver-side side lane events (suchas overtaking vehicles to the left of the vehicle) and the driver canassociate the images displayed by video screen 1607 with passenger-sideside lane events (such as overtaking vehicles to the right of thevehicle). Thus the image displayed is cognitively and physicallyassociated with the side of the vehicle where the event being displayedis occurring. By mounting video screens 1606 and 1607 as described aboveand as shown in FIG. 16, the driver can look at the interior rearviewmirror assembly 1602 to see reflected in its mirror reflector a rearwardview of vehicles approaching in the road lane the so-equipped vehicle istravelling in, while at the same time, and using substantially the sameeye movement/head movement, the driver can also see what is occurring inthe driver-side side lane and the passenger-side side lane as displayed,respectively, by video screens 1606 and 1607.

Optionally, and as illustrated in FIG. 17, system 1700 includes twovideo screens 1706, 1707 that can be located, respectively, close to thedriver-side A-pillar 1708 and the passenger-side A-pillar 1709. Thesescreens can receive and display the video output of, respectively,driver-side exterior mirror video camera 1746 and passenger-side videocamera 1756. Alternately, or in addition, video screens 1706, 1707 candisplay the image captured by an interior cabin monitoring camera (suchas a baby minder camera) or of a rear back-up/reverse-aid camera or atrailer-compartment monitoring camera (such as is disclosed below).

Also, and as shown in FIG. 18, system 1800 incorporates a driver-sideside lane monitoring camera 1846 which can be located in the driver-sideA-pillar 1808 and a passenger-side side lane monitoring camera 1856which can be located in the passenger-side A-pillar 1809. Cameras 1846,1856 can be orientated so that their respective field of view capturesthe blind-spot and/or the adjacent side lane beside the vehicle. Bymounting to the A-pillar and by viewing the side lane exterior to thevehicle by viewing through a side window, the A-pillar mounted camerascan view exterior to the vehicle while being protected from the exteriorenvironmental elements (rain, road splash, car washes, frost, snow etc.)by being located within the vehicle interior cabin.

Further, as shown in FIG. 19, system 1900 includes two video screens1906 and 1907 which can be located at lower corner portions of frontwindshield 1904. Optionally, they can also be mounted as a portion ofthe either or both of the A-pillars. Also, a microphone or microphonearray (preferably part of a digital sound processing system) can bemounted and colocated as part of any of the video screens and/or videocameras of the present invention.

As illustrated in FIG. 20, system 2000 includes a blind spot zone 2020that can exist in an adjacent side-lane where an overtaking vehicle maynot be captured by the rearward field of view of the side view mirrorand may not be captured by the driver's forward field of view. Thus,side-swipe collisions that occur due to a driver executing a lane changeunaware that an adjacent vehicle is overtaking in the “blind-spot” arecommon. Note that the blind spot zone and angles shown in FIG. 20 arerepresentative only. The location of the blind zone is dependent on theactual vehicle configuration and the size/curvature of the side viewmirror used on that particular vehicle model.

A video camera blind-spot detection system 2100 is shown in FIG. 21.Vehicle 2110 has a longitudinal centerline 2120, and is equipped with adriver-side exterior mirror assembly 2140 and a passenger-side exteriormirror assembly 2150. Driver-side exterior mirror assembly 2140 isequipped with a video camera 2146 that has a field of view directed tomonitor the side-lane blind spot on the driver side (the driver sitsbehind steering wheel 2145 in the interior cabin). Passenger-sideexterior mirror assembly 2150 is equipped with a video camera 2156 thathas a field of view directed to monitor the side-lane blind spot on thepassenger side (the side opposite to where the driver sits behindsteering wheel 2145 in the interior cabin). Taking the driver-sideexterior mirror assembly as an illustrative example, FIG. 22 shows adriver-side exterior mirror assembly 2200 that includes a rearwardfacing video camera that is located within the cavity formed by exteriormirror casing 2210 and positioned behind exterior mirror reflectiveelement 2220. The video camera located behind view port 2230 ofreflective element 2220 views through an at least substantiallytransmitting view port 2230 created in the mirror reflector coating ofreflective element 2220. As illustrated in FIG. 23, system 2300 includesa video camera 2346 that is positioned behind reflective element 2320.Reflective element 2320 comprises a glass substrate 2355 that is coatedwith a reflector coating 2358. Reflector coating 2358 typicallycomprises a metal thin film reflector (such as of silver, aluminum,silver alloy, metal alloy, chromium, and the like) or a stack of metalthin films (such a rhodium thin film over coating a chromium thin film)or can be a dichroic coating/multilayer (such as is disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,014,167 and 5,207,492, the disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference in their entireties herein) or asemi-conductor reflecting layer such as a silicon reflector layer suchas is described in U.S. patent application entitled “ELEMENTALSEMICONDUCTOR MIRROR”, Ser. No. 09/533,156, filed Mar. 23, 2000, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,196,688, the disclosure of which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety.

Reflective element 2320 preferably comprises a variable reflectanceelement, such as an electro-optic element. In most preferred form,reflective element 2320 comprises an electrochromic mirror element, forexample one of several types of electrochromic mirror elements, such asan element of the electrochemichromic type which is disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,140,455, or the solid-state type such as disclosed in, forexample, U.S. Pat. No. 4,712,879, U.S. Pat. No. 5,910,854, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 08/238,521, filed May 5, 1994, now U.S. Pat.No. 5,668,663, all commonly assigned with the present application, thedisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. Other suitable electrochromic elements and/or mirrorreflector elements are described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,151,816 and5,142,407, and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/533,260, filedMar. 20, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,305,807; Ser. No. 09/519,767, filedMar. 6, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,210,008; and Ser. No. 09/533,156,filed Mar. 23, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,196,688, the disclosures ofwhich are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Video camera view port 2330 is created by locally removing reflectorcoating 2358 so as to create a transmissive window that video camera2346 views through. This is preferably achieved by laser etching butother techniques, such as chemical removal and mechanical removal suchas by sand blasting (such techniques are disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,724,187, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein). Preferably, reflector coating 2358 is locally whollyremoved so as to allow maximum possible transmission at view port 2330.Alternately, and as disclosed in the U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,014,167; 5,724,187and 5,207,492 (the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporatedby reference herein), a significantly reflecting/significantlytransmitting reflector can be used (such as a dichroic reflector or asemi-transparent metal coating or a silicon coating) so that a view portneed not be created by removal of reflector coating. Instead, the“display on demand” disclosures as in U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187,incorporated herein, can be utilized so that the camera behind thereflective element is not readily visible due to a “one-way mirror”effect.

Note that video camera 2346 is orientated with its principal rearwardfield of view 2347 set at an angle to the plane defined by glasssubstrate 2355 (that may be a flat substrate or a convex substrate or amultiradius/aspheric substrate). The angle is chosen so that videocamera 2346 principally views the blind spot region adjacent the vehiclewhen the reflector coated glass substrate 2355 is positioned viapositioning actuator 2359 (typically an electrically operated actuatoras known in the art) by the driver in order to provide the driver withthe driver's desired rearward side view of rear approaching traffic inthe adjacent side lane.

Thus, and as shown in FIG. 24, video mirror system 2400 includes a videocamera 2446 that subtends an angle α to the plane DD′ defined byexterior mirror reflective element 2420. Note also that, when mounted inits exterior mirror assembly and attached to a vehicle, exterior mirrorreflective element 2420 itself subtends an angle θ to the vehiclecenterline BB′. Thus, the principal axis CC′ of the field of view ofvideo camera 2446 subtends an angle γ with respect to BB″ (that isparallel to BB′) and hence with respect to the vehicle centerline. Inorder to adequately and satisfactorily view the driver-side blind spot,angle γ is typically in the range of from about 10 degrees to about 70degrees; more preferably in the range of from about 15 degrees to about55 degrees; most preferably in the range of from about 20 degrees toabout 45 degrees.

There are advantages to placing the camera behind the exterior mirrorreflective element. By so placing, the camera and its lens are protectedby the glass substrate of the reflective element from physical damageand from contamination due to rain, road splash, frost and the like.However placing behind the exterior mirror reflector may not be optimumfor some exterior mirror assemblies.

As an alternative, and as shown in FIG. 25, video mirror system 2500includes a video camera that can be incorporated as part of the rearwardfacing portion of the exterior mirror casing 2530 such as at view port2535 (that may, for example, be a transparent cover that protects thecamera and its lens from the external elements). Again, the principalaxis of the field of view of the video camera viewing through view port2535 subtends an angle γ with respect to the vehicle centerline. Inorder for to adequately and satisfactorily view the driver-side blindspot, angle γ is typically in the range of from about 10 degrees toabout 70 degrees; more preferably in the range of from about 15 degreesto about 55 degrees; most preferably in the range of from about 20degrees to about 45 degrees. By fixedly mounting the video camera to thevideo camera to the exterior mirror assembly, as in FIG. 25, the angle γsubtended to the vehicle centerline remains fixed regardless ofpositioning by the driver of the rearward field of view of the exteriormirror reflective element 2538. Thus, regardless of the body position,height, seat position and preference of the driver, the field of view ofthe video camera viewing via view port 2535 (that may, for example,comprise a transparent plastic cover or lens) is unchanged by thedriver's adjustment of the mirror reflector, and can be pre-set to adesired target blind-spot region as appropriate for a particular vehiclemodel.

Referring to FIGS. 26A and 26B, video mirror system 2600 includes avideo camera 2645 mounted in the exterior mirror casing of a driver-sideexterior mirror assembly mounted to a General Motors minivan. As can beseen from the photographs of FIG. 26, video camera 2645 is fixedlymounted to the mirror casing of the exterior mirror assembly and isangled away from the side of the vehicle so that the principal axis ofits rearward field of view subtends an angle of approximately 45 degreesto the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. It is angled to view ablind-spot of mirror reflective element 2640. Mirror reflective element2640 is adjustable without changing the orientation of video camera2645. Video camera 2645 provides an image output to any of the in-cabinmirror-mounted and/or windshield-mounted/header-mounted and/or interiorcabin pillar-mounted video screens of the present invention. Also,optionally, video camera 2645 can be angled more parallel with or indeedparallel with the vehicle body side so as to view rearward further downthe road as opposed to being directed to principally capture an image ofthe blind-spot.

Other locations in the exterior mirror assembly for the blind-spotmonitoring camera are possible. For example, and as shown in FIG. 27,video mirror system 2700 includes a video camera that can be mounted aspart of the mounting element 2770 of the exterior mirror assembly bywhich the exterior mirror assembly attaches to the side body of thevehicle.

Certain exterior mirror assemblies, and particularly those commonly usedon vans, SUVs and trucks, and particularly for trailer-tow mirrorassemblies, utilize a fixedly mounted wide-angle mirror (sometimesreferred to as a “spotter” mirror) as an auxiliary mirror to anadjustable principal reflective element. As shown in FIG. 28, videomirror system 2800 includes a video camera 2846 can be mounted in mirrorcasing 2844 behind, and viewing through, the auxiliary reflectiveelement 2850 that is disposed below the principal (and adjustable)principal reflective element 2860. As shown in FIG. 29, video mirrorsystem 2900 incorporates a video camera 2950 that is fixedly disposedbehind auxiliary mirror reflective element 2950 in the cavity defined byexterior mirror casing 2944. Video camera 2946 is oriented in casing2944 so that the principal axis of its field of view is angled away fromthe side of the vehicle to which exterior mirror assembly 2900 ismounted, and so as to view the blind-spot on that side and display theimage so captured on an in-cabin video screen. Principal exterior mirrorreflective element 2960 is separate from auxiliary reflective element2950, and is adjustable within mirror casing 2944 by electrical actuator2955 in order to set the rearward field of view of principal exteriormirror reflective element 2960 to the preference/need of the driver.

FIG. 30 shows video mirror system 3000 that incorporates a video camera3046 mounted in the exterior mirror casing of a driver-side exteriormirror assembly mounted to a Ford Motor Company Excursion sports utilityvehicle. As can be seen from the photograph of FIG. 30, video camera3046 is fixedly mounted behind (and views through a view port in) theauxiliary mirror element 3050 of the exterior mirror assembly and isangled away from the side of the vehicle so that the principal axis ofits rearward field of view subtends an angle of approximately 53 degreesto the longitudinal axis of the vehicle. It is angled to view ablind-spot of principal mirror reflective element 3060. Mirrorreflective element 3060 is adjustable without changing the orientationof video camera 3046. Video camera 3046 provides an image output to anyof the in-cabin mirror-mounted and/or windshield-mounted/header-mountedvideo screens of the present invention. Also, optionally, video camera3046 can be angled more parallel with or indeed parallel with thevehicle body side so as to view rearward further down the road asopposed to being directed to capture an image of the blind-spot.

When towing a trailer such as a boat, a horse box (or similar liveanimal container) or a caravan, it is often desirable for the driver tobe able to see rearward and to see what is occurring within the trailer(that typically is a closed container) while driving on the highway orwhen reversing. FIG. 31 shows a trailer container camera system 3100that comprises a trailer 3120 towed by a tow vehicle 3130 via a towbar/hitch connection 3140. A video camera 3150 is provided that has afield of view that captures an image of the inside of the towed trailer3120. For example, this may be a horse box, and camera 3150 captures animage of a horse or horses in trailer 3120, and provides this to a videoscreen 3146 located in the interior cabin of towing vehicle 3130. Videoscreen 3146 is located at a position readily viewable by the driver,such as at or adjacent to the interior rearview mirror assembly ofvehicle 3130 or such as at another location within the driver's forwardfield of view such as part of or adjacent to an A-pillar. Preferably,trailer-compartment viewing camera 3150 is provided with theillumination and other accessories and features described above inrelation to an in-cabin monitoring camera such as a baby-minder camera(e.g., LED illumination, “Plug and View” etc.). Optionally, trailercontainer 3120 is also equipped with a back-up camera 3170 to aidreversing and back-up maneuvers. Again, the video output of reverse-aidcamera 3170 is displayed for view by the driver of vehicle 3130 on videoscreen 3146. Also, the features and accessories previously described inrelation to reverse-back up cameras can apply to the trailer back-upcamera system. Optionally, and preferably, towing vehicle 3130 isequipped with a reversing-aid camera 3171 (that is mounted, for example,at the rear license plate region of vehicle 3130). Reversing-aid camera3171 has its field of view directed to include the tow bar/hitchconnection 3140, as well as the leading portion of towed container 3120.The driver is provided with a control that allows him/her toggle betweenreversing-aid camera 3171 and tow container reverse-aid camera 3170.When the driver selects reversing-aid camera 3171, a view of thetow-bar/tow container (that may be a boat or a U-Haul trailer or ananimal container or a trailer tent or any other trailer type) isdisplayed on video display 3146 (that can be any of the video displaysof the present invention). When the driver selects tow containerreverse-aid camera 3170, a view to the rear of tow container 3120 (thatmay be a boat or a U-Haul trailer or an animal container or a trailertent or any other trailer type) is displayed on video display 3146 (thatcan be any of the video displays of the present invention). Also, andoptionally, the interior of a container of a towed trailer (such as ahorse box) can be equipped with a microphone (such as mounted to camera3170) that allows the driver, seated in tow vehicle 3130 hear what isoccurring in trailer 3120 (such as via the vehicle audio system). Thus,in accordance with the present invention, a driver towing a horse boxcan visually and audibly monitor the status of horses being towedbehind.

Another application encompassed by the present invention includesplacing a video camera and/or a microphone (preferably low power so asto operate from a battery) in an animal container or kennel such as thepet containers (such as a dog box) that are commonly used fortransporting small pets such as dogs and cats on planes. Optionally,when the pet container equipped with the compartment-monitoring videocamera and/or microphone is placed in the plane, it connects or isconnected to an in-plane (or in-train or similar transportation vehicle)data bus so that the pet owner (sitting in the passenger compartment ofthe plane or in communication with the plane via a telematic service oran INTERNET connection, can view and/or hear the pet in the container onthe plane to be assured that the pet is OK and not distressed/at hazard.

For constructions such as those disclosed above where a video screen isdisposed behind the reflective element of an interior mirror assembly(and where its image displayed by the rear-disposed video screen istypically viewed either through a light transmissive opening created bypartially or wholly locally removing the metallic reflector coating ofthe mirror reflective opening or by using the “display on demand”techniques described above), a problem can arise from glare and thelike, and particularly on a sunny day when ambient light adjacent thein-cabin display is high, leading to difficulty in the driver or otheroccupant of the vehicle being able to see the information beingdisplayed in contrast to the glare and other reflections off the frontsurface (typically a sodalime glass surface) of the mirror element.

As disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/449,121, filed Nov.24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172, and Ser. No. 09/585,379, filedJun. 1, 2000, which are incorporated herein in their entireties,optionally and desirably, any video display used in the vehicle, andparticularly mirror-mounted video displays of the present invention, andespecially when using liquid crystal display technology, are equippedwith contrast enhancement/anti-glare elements to reduce display wash-outfrom glare during high ambient light conditions such as at noon on asunny day. For example, a Trivium Diodic Lens can be used, as availablefrom Trivium Technologies of Cleveland, Ohio that uses passive polymerthin film technology. The outer surface of the mirror element (i.e., thesurface upon which incident radiation is first incident) or of any videodisplay used in the vehicle such as a windshield-mounted video displayas described above, and particularly mirror-mounted video displays ofthe present invention, and especially when using liquid crystal displaytechnology, is preferably coated with a glare reducing element such as asurface diffuser coating such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.6,001,486 and 5,725,957 and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/348,086,filed Jul. 6, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,087,012 (which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties), or an interferenceanti-glare multi-layer thin film, or a low index (less than about 1.4refractive index measured at the Sodium D line) polymeric film.

For windshield-mounted video display assemblies and A-pillar-mounteddisplay assemblies such as those described above, a contrastenhancement/anti-glare element is preferably disposed over the entirevideo screen dimension. For mirror-mounted displays where the videoscreen is locally disposed behind a portion of the reflective element ofthe interior rearview mirror assembly, it is preferred to dispose acontrast enhancement/anti-glare element locally over the front surfaceof the mirror reflective element so as to juxtapose the video displaydisposed locally on the rear surface. Thus, and referring to FIG. 32,contrast enhanced video display mirror reflective element assembly 3200comprises a video screen 3240 disposed to the rear surface 3252 ofmirror reflective element 3250 (mirror reflective element 3250 typicallycomprises a glass prismatic mirror element or an electrochromic mirrorelement that typically comprises at least one and typically two glasssubstrates). An index matching medium 3254 (typically an opticaladhesive such as is available from Dymax or Norland or an opticalpolymer such as a silicone or a polyvinyl butyral) is provided tooptically couple the outer surface of video screen 3240 to rear surface3252 of mirror element 3250. An anti-reflective element 3260 is locallydisposed on front surface 3262 of mirror element 3250 at a location thatjuxtaposes the location of video screen 3240 behind mirror element 3250.An index matching medium 3264 (typically an optical adhesive such as isavailable from Dymax or Norland or an optical polymer such as a siliconeor a polyvinyl butyral) is provided to optically couple the innersurface of anti-reflective element 3260 to front surface 3262 of mirrorelement 3250. Suitable optical adhesives and index matching media aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,076,674, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein. Index matching mediums 3254,3264 preferably have a refractive index (measured at the sodium D line)of from about 1.45 to about 1.57, and more preferably from about 1.47 toabout 1.55 and most preferably from about 1.49 to about 1.54.Anti-reflective element 3260 can comprise a multilayer interferencestack of thin films deposited on a thin glass substrate or on a thinplastic substrate, and available from the likes of OCLI Inc. of SantaRosa, Calif. Preferably, the anti-reflection medium of anti-reflectionelement 3260 has a reflectivity to incident visible light (measured witha photopic detector) of less than or equal to about 2%; more preferablyless than or equal to about 1%; most preferably less than or equal toabout 0.5%. The thickness of the substrate (preferably a glasssubstrate) onto which the anti-reflection medium is deposited ispreferably smaller than about 1.7 mm in thickness dimension, morepreferably smaller than about 1.2 mm in thickness dimension, and mostpreferably smaller than about 0.7 mm in thickness dimension.

FIG. 33 shows a video mirror assembly 3300 that includes a video display3340 that is mounted behind an opening in the reflective coating of theelectrochromic mirror reflective element 3370 of interior rearviewmirror assembly 3360. An anti-reflection coated glass cover sheet 3350is locally optically adhered to the front surface of mirror element 3370so as to be juxtaposed with and to cover video display 3340. The frontsurface (which is a sodalime glass surface) reflectivity at location Aon mirror element 3370 is about 4% in accordance with Fresnel's laws ofreflectance. The first-surface reflectivity at point B of the front,anti-reflectance-coated surface of cover sheet 3350 placed over thelocation of video screen 3340 is less than 1% due to the anti-reflectioncoating thereon. Thus, front surface reflection of incident glaringlight and of, for instance, the image of the rear window of the vehicleis much reduced at point B as opposed to point A, aiding visibility ofthe image being displayed by video display 3340 under high ambient lightconditions such as during daytime. Optionally, the entire front surfaceof the reflective element or a portion of that surface can beanti-reflective coated (using techniques, processes and materials suchas are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,076,674; 3,432,225; 3,781,090;4,446,171 and 3,185,020, the entire disclosures of which are herebyincorporated by reference herein).

Any video display of the present invention is optionally and preferablyprovided with a variable intensity control that allows the displayintensity to increase when ambient light intensity is high (such as byday) and to reduce when ambient light intensity is low (such as bynight). For emitting displays such as LED displays or electroluminescentdisplays or plasma displays or field emission displays, displayintensity can be increased by increasing current to the light emittingelement(s). For passive displays such as liquid crystal displays,display intensity can be increase by increasing the back lightingintensity. Display intensity can be user-controlled (such as by arheostat control or a touch sensor control or by a voice-responsivecontrol) or may be automatically controlled by a photo sensor such as aphoto resistor or a photo diode. The photo sensor may be positioned aspart of the video display assembly or may be positioned separate fromthe video display assembly. The photo sensor may be part of a circuitcontrolling an electrochromic mirror element of an automatic dimmingelectrochromic mirror system and/or may be part of a twilight sentinelautomatic headlamp control that turns headlamps on/off at dusk/dawn.Also, should the video display be disposed behind an electrochromicdimming element, the intensity of the display can be controlled tocompensate for loss of transmission through the electrochromic elementas it dims. Control techniques suitable for photo sensor control of thevideo displays of the present invention are disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos.5,193,029; 4,793,690; 5,416,313 and 5,285,060, the entire disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

As shown in FIG. 34, video screen 3440 can be located behindelectrochromic reflective element 3460 of video mirror assembly 3400 atregion AA′. When reflective element 3460 dims in reflectance due toelectrochromic activity, the intensity of the display is reduced by theelectrochromic action local to where it is positioned at region AA′.Optionally, the electrochromic activity at region AA′ can be avoidedsuch as by locally removing the transparent conductive coating ofelectrochromic reflective element 3460 at region AA′ or by creating adeletion line or a segment (such as are described U.S. Pat. Nos.6,002,511; 5,724,187; 5,668,663 and 5,910,854, the entire disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference herein) in the transparentconductive coating(s) of the electrochromic element in region AA′ sothat region AA′ retains a high transmission (and hence the displayintensity of video display 3440 is not reduced) when the region outsideof region AA′ dims in reflectivity to compensate for glaring headlightsand the like. Alternately, and as shown in FIG. 35, video mirrorassembly 3500 includes a video display 3540 disposed behindelectrochromic mirror reflective element 3560 at region AA″. Reflectiveelement 3560 is divided by partition 3570 into Zone A and Zone B. Zone Aand Zone B are individually controllable in reflectivity by control 3580(that preferably includes a photo sensor responsive to ambient lightintensity levels local to assembly 3500). During daytime driving,control 3580 powers Zone B alone to reduce light transmission (forexample, by dimming to a 20% to 30% transmission level in Zone B for theelectrochromic medium of Zone B) so that contrast enhancement for theimage being displayed by video display 3540 is provided. By night,control 3580 powers both Zone A and Zone B (either in tandem orselectively) to provide glare protection from trailing headlights.Partition 3570 can be an epoxy seal material, as used in theelectrochromic arts and as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,002,511;5,680,245; 5,066,112; 5,724,187; 5,668,663 and 5,910,854, the entiredisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein).

Alternately, and as shown in FIG. 36, video mirror assembly 3600includes a video display 3640 disposed behind electrochromic mirrorreflective element 3660 at region AA″. Reflective element 3660 isdivided by partition 3670 into Zone A and Zone B. Zone A and Zone B areindividually controllable in reflectivity by control 3680 (thatpreferably includes a photo sensor responsive to ambient light intensitylevels local to assembly 3600). During daytime driving, control 3680powers Zone B alone to reduce light transmission (for example, bydimming to a 20% to 30% transmission level in Zone B for theelectrochromic medium of Zone B) so that contrast enhancement for theimage being displayed by video display 3640 is provided. By night,control 3680 powers both Zone A and Zone B (either in tandem orselectively) to provide glare protection from trailing headlights.Partition 3670 can be an epoxy seal material, as used in theelectrochromic arts and as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,002,511;5,680,245; 5,066,112; 5,724,187; 5,668,663 and 5,910,854, the entiredisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein).

The video mirror assemblies, the in-cabin video displays mountedseparate from an interior mirror assembly of a vehicle and/or any cameramounting assembly of the present invention, such as shown in theprevious FIGS., may house a plurality of electrical or electronicdevices, such as antennas, including global positioning system (GPS) orcellular phone antennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,552,and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/187,960, filed Mar. 9,2000, communication modules or systems, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,798,688, and U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/199,676,filed Apr. 21, 2000, displays such as shown in U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240or in U.S. application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,172,613, and application Ser. No. 09/448,700, filed Nov. 24,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925, blind spot detection systems, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,929,786 or 5,786,772, transmitters and/orreceivers, such as garage door openers, a digital network, such asdescribed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575, a high/low head lamp controller,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,093, a memory mirror system,such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,176, and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/572,008, filed May 16, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No.6,698,905, a hands-free phone attachment, a video device for internalcabin surveillance and/or video telephone function, such as disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and 5,877,897, a remote keyless entry receiver,map lights, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,321; 5,813,745;5,820,245; 5,673,994; 5,649,756; or 5,178,448, microphones, such asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642; Ser. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377; and Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov.25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610, speakers, a compass, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,212, seat occupancy detector, a tripcomputer, an ONSTAR System or the like, with all of the above referencedpatents and applications commonly assigned, the disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

Also, and especially for video mirror assemblies where the video screenis incorporated as part of an interior electro-optic (such aselectrochromic) mirror assembly, a common circuit board and/or commonelectronic components and sub-circuitry can be utilized to control theelectro-optic activity of the reflective element and to control theimage displayed by the video screen, thus achieving economy of designand function, and for operating other electrical or electronic functionssupported in the interior rearview assembly. For example, a circuitboard of the interior mirror assembly may support, for example, lightemitting diodes (LEDs) for illuminating indicia on display elementsprovided on a chin or eyebrow portion of the bezel region of theinterior mirror casing. Reference is made to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,671,996and 5,820,245, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference in their entireties. It should be understood that one or moreof these buttons or displays may be located elsewhere on the mirrorassembly or separately in a module, for example of the type disclosed inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, now U.S. Pat. No.6,172,613, and may comprise the touch-sensitive displays as disclosed inU.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/192,721, filed Mar. 27, 2000,the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. Note that button inputs can be provided along the lowerbezel region of the interior mirror assembly such that, when actuated, adisplay appears within the mirror reflector region of the mirrorreflective element. Preferably, the display appears local to thephysical location of the particular button accessed by the driver orvehicle occupant (typically, immediately above it) so that the personaccessing the mirror associates the appearance and information of thedisplay called up by that individual button with the user's actuation ofthe button. Multiple actuations of that button can cause the display toscroll through various menu items/data displays, allowing the user toaccess a wide range of information. The button and associated circuitrycan be adapted to recognize when a particular menu item is desiredselected (such as holding down a particular input button for longer thana prescribed period, for example longer than about 1 second or longerthan about 2 seconds or the like; if the button is held down for lessthan the prescribed period, the display scrolls to the next menu item).Preferably, whatever information is being displayed is displayed by asubstantially reflecting and substantially transmittingreflective/transmissive reflector of the mirror reflective element suchas the display on demand constructions disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,724,187, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference. Also, these features can be provided for any non-mirror videodisplay of the present invention.

Video displays and/or video display mirrors of the present inventionoptionally include light emitting sources, such as light emittingdiodes, to provide back lighting and/or local illumination. For example,light emitting diodes can provide low level non-incandescent white lightor non-white light for illuminating indicia. However, it should beunderstood that other LEDs providing light and colors other than white,such as amber, red, blue, yellow, green, orange or the like may be used.Alternately, other light emitting elements can be used to displayinformation, such as incandescent displays, vacuum fluorescent displays,electroluminescent displays, light emitting diode displays, cathode raytube displays, field emission displays, E-ink displays, or organicemitting polymer displays or the like. Examples of displays may be foundin application Ser. No. 09/660,712, filed Sep. 13, 2000, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,291,906, and Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,172,613, or U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240, and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,326,613, commonly assigned, which are herein incorporated by referencein their entireties. In addition, any video display or video displaymirror of the present invention may comprise a touch-sensitive display,such as described in U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/192,721,filed Mar. 27, 2000. Also, any video display, video mirror displayand/or camera assembly of the present invention may include a controlthat is responsive to a voice command from an occupant of the vehicle,and that responds to this voice command by, for example, selecting oneparticular camera or a set of cameras from a plurality of camera on thevehicle, or changing the intensity of a display screen or selecting toview a baby in a rear sear instead of a rearward view to the rear of thevehicle.

Also, any video display, video mirror display and/or camera assembly ofthe present invention may also incorporate an in-vehicle trainapproaching warning system. Such a train approaching warning systemalerts the driver of the vehicle of the eminent arrival of a train at arailroad crossing. Such a warning system can activate audible and/orvisual alarms in the vehicle if a train is approaching. Such trainwarning displays may override any existing displays so that the driveris fully alert to any potential hazard. One suitable train controlsystem is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/561,023,filed Apr. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,553,308, the entire disclosureof which is incorporated by reference herein in its entirety. Vehicle toroad-side communication antennas can be attached to railroad signs,crossing barriers, and the like and can transmit to antennas mounted inthe vehicle located such as within the interior rearview mirror of thevehicle or within an interior cabin trim item or side exterior rearviewmirror assembly. One such track side communication system is availablefrom Dynamic Vehicle Safety Systems of Amarillo, Tex., which detectssignals from trains approaching a crossing and transmits these signalsalong the road to forewarn of a railroad crossing ahead.

It is also possible to incorporate low level console or instrumentationlighting for vehicles in any video display, video mirror display and/orcamera assembly of the present invention by fitting a low levelnon-incandescent light emitting light source such as a light emittingdiode for illuminating an instrument panel or console as disclosed incommonly assigned U.S. Pat. No. 5,671,996, the disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference. A variety of emitting sources can beused such as high intensity amber and reddish orange light emittingdiode sources, such as solid state light emitting diode (LED) sourcesutilizing double hydro junction AlGaAs/GaAs Material Technology such asvery high intensity red (LED) lamps T/1 (5 mm) HLMP-4100/4101 availablefrom Hewlett Packard Corporation of Palo Alto, Calif., or transparentsubstrate aluminum indium gallium phosphide (AlInGaP) MaterialTechnology, commercially available from Hewlett Packard Corporation, ofPallo Alto, Calif. Also, blue or white LEDs can be used or a combinationof individual different colored diodes can be used with the color mixingtherefrom to form a desired color. Optionally, a plurality of LEDs suchas a cluster of four, six, eight or the like LEDs can be used to targetand illuminate a local area for higher illumination at that area, suchas may be useful in a map light (most preferably illuminating the targetarea with white light). The concepts of this present invention can beused with other interior rearview mirror assemblies and vehicleaccessories which are equipped with a variety of features andaccessories, such as a home access transmitter, a high/low (or daylightrunning beam/low) headlamp controller, a hands free phone attachment, avideo device, such as a video camera for internal cabin surveillanceand/or video telephone function, a remote keyless entry receiver, acompass, a seat occupancy detection, multiple reading lights, a tripcomputer, an intrusion detector, and the like. Any video display, videomirror display and/or camera assembly of the present invention may alsoinclude a compass/temperature and a clock display, fuel level display,and other vehicle status and other information displays, preferablyelectronically superimposed over the background image being displayed.Thus, for example, a driver can use a baby minder camera to view aninfant seated in a rear seat via a video mirror and also see on thescreen of the interior mirror assembly video mirror a compass display(or any other or additional information display desired such as GPSinformation) displayed also on the same screen along with the image ofthe infant in the rear seat.

As it would be understood by those skilled in the art, the electricallyoperated display and other devices optionally provided in any videodisplay, video mirror display and/or camera assembly of the presentinvention are conveniently connected to the electrical system of thevehicle in which the present invention is mounted via electrical wiringand/or by wireless connection (such as by infrared coupling or by RFcoupling such as is provided by the like of the BLUETOOTH protocol)and/or by optical coupling (such as via a fiber-optic cable). The use ofa video screen in conjunction with electrically operated interiorrearview mirrors has the further advantage of permitting electricalcoupling of the display element to the power supply of the vehicle bythe pre-existing wire harnesses serving the rearview mirror. Thus, theelectrical coupling of the display element can be by direct connectionwith the existing wire harness or in parallel through an adapter plug.This particularly facilitates a retrofit such as might occur as in theafter-market or at a dealership that is a result of an option selection.

Most preferably, any video screen of the present invention is cantedtoward the driver when mounted in the vehicle, or can be canted towardsthe driver such as by the pivot mountings described above. Any videoscreen of the present invention can display output from any camera, suchas from a rear vision back-up camera (for example, located at or as partof the license plate assembly on the rear of the vehicle), such asdisclosed in application Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610, and Ser. No. 09/361,814 filed Jul. 27, 1999,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642, commonly assigned, the disclosures of whichare herein incorporated by reference in their entireties, a baby mindercamera (that can be part of an interior light such as a dome light orrail lamp or can be part of a coat hook assembly or grab handle assemblyor similar interior trim item), and/or a vehicle interior surveillancecamera (that can be part of an interior light such as a dome light orrail lamp or can be part of a coat hook assembly or grab handle assemblyor similar interior trim item). Any video screen of the presentinvention can display vehicle instrument status, such as vehicleinformation display, including information relating to fuel gaugelevels, a compass display indicating directional heading of the vehicleand the like. For example, and as described above, a compass display ofvehicle directional heading can be displayed as an additional display onan interior cabin video screen (preferably a mirror-mounted videodisplay) that is showing a video view of a rear seat occupant (such asin a baby minder system) or of a rear back-up event or side and rearlanes as in a panoramic rear vision system.

It has been suggested and known to equip a vehicle (and especially alarge multi-passenger carrying vehicle such as a minivan, van,sports-utility vehicle and the like (and especially when equipped withat least three rows of seating) with a video display mounted in theheader/headliner/overhead console region of the roof of the interiorcabin and that flips down from the cabin headliner region when desiredto be viewed by occupants of the vehicle. This interior cabinroof-mounted video display typically includes an integrated DVD videosystem that allows display on a flat panel (7 inches diagonal dimension)active matrix, thin-film transistor liquid crystal display of movies,video games, computer generated displays, and the like from DVDdisks/interactive game disks for the entertainment of passengerstypically rearward of the front row of seats of the vehicle where thedriver sits (typically, it is undesirable for the driver to be viewingand thus potentially distracted by movies, TV stations, games etc. whiledriving). Also, it has been suggested to equip such largepassenger-carrying (typically 6-9 or more passenger capacity) cabinswith microphones adjacent each individual row of rear seats and,optionally, video cameras imaging individual rear seat rows orindividual rear seat locations so that rear passengers in the vehiclecan readily converse among themselves and with their images shown on theheader-mounted display screen and with their conversations amplified viathe vehicle audio system. Thus, this known system provides areconfigurable overhead display that flips down from the headliner ofthe interior cabin of the vehicle (such as from an overhead console) forviewing by passengers in the rear of the vehicle and that provides anelectronic conversation function that uses a video display, interiorroof-area mounted video cameras and microphones to enhance communicationbetween front- and rear-seat passengers in the vehicle.

As an extension of such a known system, a video camera can be fixedlymounted to the movable portion of any pivotally-adjustable video displayof the present invention. The field of view of the video display-mountedcamera is substantially coaxial with the normal viewing angle by thedriver of the vehicle of that video display after the driver hasadjusted the orientation of the video screen so that the driver canproperly view. Thus, when the movable portion of the video displayassembly is adjusted by the driver so his or her view of the videoscreen is correct for that driver, the field of view of the videodisplay-mounted camera is automatically aligned so as to substantiallyview the head portion of the driver, such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 6,087,953 and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filedFeb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613, and Ser. No. 09/734,440,filed Dec. 11, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,366,213, which are incorporatedby reference herein in their entireties. Thus, the very action by thedriver of adjusting the adjustable part of the video display assembly toview it automatically aligns the video display-mounted camera to viewthe head portion of the driver. This image of the driver can, optionallyand preferably, be displayed on a header/headliner/overheadconsole-mounted video screen (optionally in a picture-in-picture form asis common on home televisions) so that the rear passengers can have theimage of the driver displayed to them, and so the driver can participatein their conversations by visual appearance on the overhead-mountedvideo screen viewed by the rear passengers. Preferably, a microphone ora plurality of microphones is provided for the driver and front seatoccupant(s) to allow them to audibly participate as well. Also, imagescaptured of passengers rearward of the front seat row (where the driversits) by the rear-seat viewing cameras (typically located at theheadliner or on the upper side roof portions of the interior cabin) canbe displayed by the mirror-mounted video screen provided at the interiormirror assembly and/or at a windshield-mounted video screen and/or at anA-pillar-mounted video screen so that the driver can view what ishappening in the rear seats (and optionally view the status of a childor baby in a rear seat child/baby safety seat). Provision of a videodisplay mirror-mounted camera and/or a video screen in accordance withthe present invention can extend the usefulness of in-cabin videodisplays (such as the DVD-equipped electronic conversation systemdescribed above) that are overhead/roof mounted or with their screen(s)mounted in the back(s) of headrest(s) and vehicle seat(s) or otherwisepositioned outside the immediate forward line of sight of the driver.Such provision of a video display-mounted camera and/or a video screenin accordance with the present invention and at a location (such asattached to the inner surface of the front windshield or as part of anA-pillar) forward of the driver and located such that the driver canreadily view the video screen without excessive head movement and neckmovement, and without distracting the driver from the driving task,allows the driver to more fully utilize a vehicular overhead videodisplay/electronic conversation system (such as the DVD based systemincluding a video/audio system that is sometimes referred to as avision-aided conversation system and is available from Johnson ControlsInc. of Holland Mich.) that is largely intended for rear-seat passengerentertainment and/or provision of an interior mirror-mounted cameraand/or video screen enhances the value of such a system to rear seatpassengers, and the mirror-based video screen can further be used todisplay to the driver the output of a back-up camera (that can bemounted such as part of a CHMSL stop light and view rearward of thevehicle during reversing via the rear window or can be mounted externalto the rear window such as part of a license plate attachment, a trunklid or a trunk handle assembly) and/or of a dedicated baby mindercamera. Display of such back-up images at the interior rearview mirrorassembly rather than at, for example, a roof header console-mountedscreen is preferred for an ease of driver use and viewabilitystandpoint. Note that optionally, a child-minder/baby-monitoring camerathat monitors a child or baby seated in a rear seat area of the vehiclecan be included in a display assembly that flips-down from theheader/roof region as in the display/conversation system referencedabove.

An improved electronic conversation system 14000 of this presentinvention (see FIG. 37) includes an overhead video display assembly14030 that comprises a video screen 14032, and optionally andpreferably, a video camera 14034 and/or a microphone 14036. Preferably,assembly 14030 comprises an overhead console of the vehicle attached tothe roof portion 14031 of the vehicle. Display screen 14032 preferablycomprises a flat-panel matrix-addressable, reconfigurable displayelement such as a passive display (such as a liquid crystal display) or,more preferably in order to avoid image wash-out due to glare under highambient light conditions such as may occur on a sunny day, may comprisean active display comprising individual light-emitting pixels (such as aplasma multi-pixel display or a field-emission multi-pixel display or alight emitting diode multi-pixel display or a electroluminescentmulti-element display). The outer surface of screen 14032 is preferablycoated with a glare reducing element such as a surface diffuser coatingsuch as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,001,486 and 5,725,957 and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/348,086, filed Jul. 6, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,087,012 (which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties), or an interference anti-glare multi-layer thin film, or alow index (less than about 1.4 refractive index measured at the Sodium Dline) polymeric film. Camera 14034 preferably comprises a CCD or a CMOSimage capture device. Preferably, the field of view of camera 14034includes a view of passengers seated in rear seat row 14080 (which isthe seat row immediately to the rear of the front seat row 14085 wherethe driver and front-seat passenger(s) sit). Camera 14040 preferablycomprises a CCD or a CMOS image capture device. Preferably, the field ofview of camera 14040 includes a view of passengers seated in rear seatrow 14090 (which is the seat row immediately to the rear of the seat row14080). Camera 14060 preferably comprises a CCD or a CMOS image capturedevice. Preferably, the field of view of camera 14060 includes a view ofany passengers seated to the rear of seat row 14090, and/or it may alsoinclude a view out a rear window of the vehicle in order to capture animage of the area immediately behind the vehicle so as to assist safebacking of the vehicle during a reversing maneuver. Microphones 14036,14042 and 14062 are adapted to detect voice inputs and conversations ofrear seat passengers of the vehicle. Such voice signatures so detectedare preferably processed by a digital sound processing system (such asis disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010, filed Dec.17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety) to enhance the vocal signature signalsof the rear seat passengers and to reduce/eliminate non-vocal noise.Connection of cameras 14040 and 14060 and microphones 14042 and 14062 toassembly 14030 can be by wire connection (such as a CAN or LIN busconnection or a multi-wire cable or a fiber-optic link) and/or can be bywireless connection (such as by radio frequency wireless communicationlink or by infrared wireless communication link). Video screen 14032 candisplay the images captured of the rear seat passengers by cameras14034, 14040 and 14060, and the conversations of rear seat passengersdetected by microphones 14036, 14042 and 14062 can be heard throughoutthe vehicle such as by playback via the vehicle audio system.

Electronic conversation system 14000 further includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 14010 comprising a mirror reflective element(preferably an electrochromic mirror element) housed in a mirror casing14012 that is pivotally attached to a mirror support arm 14014 thatattaches, via bracket 14016, to the front windshield 14018 of thevehicle. Note that, as an alternate, mirror assembly 14010 could attachto the header region above the windshield or be part of an overheadconsole of the vehicle, as known in the art. Casing 14012 (that ismoveably and pivotally adjustable by the driver so as to set thedriver-desired rearward field of view of mirror reflective element14021) preferably includes a video screen 14020, a video camera 14022and/or a microphone or multiple microphones 14024 (although, optionally,some or all of these can be incorporated elsewhere on/in or at mirrorassembly 14010 such as in a pod attached to bracket 14016, or attachingto/incorporated in support arm 14014, or mounted adjacent to the mirrorassembly 14010 such as by mounting to the windshield in the regionbetween the point of attachment of mirror assembly 14010 to thewindshield and the headliner above). Mirror-mounted display screen 14020(that preferably has a diagonal screen dimension in the range from about1 inch to about 4 inches) preferably comprises a flat-panelmatrix-addressable, reconfigurable display element such as a passivedisplay (such as a liquid crystal display) or, more preferably in orderto avoid image wash-out due to glare under high ambient light conditionssuch as may occur on a sunny day, may comprise an active displaycomprising individual light-emitting pixels (such as a plasmamulti-pixel display or a field-emission multi-pixel display or a lightemitting diode multi-pixel display or a electroluminescent multi-elementdisplay). The outer surface of screen 14020 is preferably coated with aglare reducing element such as a surface diffuser coating such as isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,001,486 and 5,725,957 and U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/348,086, filed Jul. 6, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,087,012 (which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties), or an interference anti-glare multi-layer thin film, or alow index (less than about 1.4 refractive index measured at the Sodium Dline) polymeric film. Camera 14022 preferably comprises a CCD or a CMOSimage capture device, and most preferably, camera 14022 is incorporatedin casing 14012 (such as in a bezel or eyebrow region) with the field ofview of the camera set so that when the driver adjusts casing 14012about its pivot connection to support arm 14014 in order to properly setthe rearward field of view for mirror reflector 14021, the field of viewof camera 14022 substantially includes a view of the head/face region ofthe driver seated in front seat row 14085 (which is the seat rowimmediately to the front of seat row 14080). Thus, when the driveraligns the field of view of the mirror reflector to properly seerearward out the rear window of the vehicle, the field of view of themirror-casing mounted camera is thereby aligned to substantially viewthe head/face region of the driver. This image of the head/face regionof the driver may be displayed on video screen 14032 of overhead videoassembly 14030, in conjunction with images captured by any one orseveral or all of cameras 14034, 14040 and 14060. For example, an imageof the driver captured by mirror-mounted camera 14022 could be displayedat overhead screen 14032, preferably superimposed upon or merged with(such as by a picture-in-a-picture video display as known in the displayart) images of the rear seat occupants captured by cameras 14034, 14040and/or 14060. In this manner a video image view of the driver can beseen by the rear passengers. Optionally, camera 14022 can capture avideo image of a front seat passenger in addition to, or as an alternateto, that of the driver. Also, optionally but less preferably, camera14022 can be located elsewhere on the interior mirror assembly (such asin a pod attaching to bracket 14016) or elsewhere, high-mounted at thefront of the vehicle cabin such as in the region between the mirrorattachment point to the windshield to the headliner above or at thejoint between the windshield and the headliner, or it can be located aspart of the instrument panel or as part of a front body pillar such asthe A-pillar in the interior cabin. Microphone 14024 is adapted todetect voice inputs and conversations of front seat occupants of thevehicle such as the driver and/or a front-seat passenger. Such voicesignatures so detected are preferably processed by a digital soundprocessing system (such as previously described, including such as isdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010, filed Dec. 17,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975, which is incorporated by referenceherein in its entirety) to enhance the vocal signature signals of driverand/or other front seat row occupant and to reduce/eliminate non-vocalnoise. Connection of cameras 14034 14040 and 14060 and microphones14024, 14042 and 14062 to assembly 14030 can be by wire connection (suchas a CAN or LIN bus connection or a multi-wire cable or a fiber-opticlink) and/or can be by wireless connection (such as by radio frequencywireless communication link or by infrared wireless communication link).Thus, and as described above, video screen 14032 can display the imagecaptured of front seat occupants (and especially the head/face view ofthe driver) and of rear seat passengers by cameras 14022, 14034, 14040and 14060, and the conversations of front seat occupants (and especiallythe driver) and of rear seat passengers detected by microphones 14024,14036, 14042 and 14062 can be heard throughout the vehicle such as byplayback via the vehicle audio system. Note that preferably, videoscreen 14032 is positioned out of the immediate forward line of sight ofthe driver in order to obviate distracting the driver from the drivingtask (and thus potentially impair safe driving).

Soon, cell phone calls made from cellular phones will become traceablethrough a global positioning system (GPS). Thus, an emergency phone callmade from a vehicle equipped with a navigational system such as GPS to a“911” service may be forwarded or routed to the correct emergency agencyfor that location. Since each phone has a unique identifier, GPS canidentify a phone and, further, identify the location of that phone. Forexample, the phone or mirror assembly may include a separate emergencybutton which can be activated by an occupant of the vehicle to notifylocal emergency agencies that an occupant of the vehicle is in need foremergency assistance. For example, tracing of the phone may beincorporated into or used in conjunction with a vehicle navigationsystem, such as described in provisional application Ser. No.60/131,593, filed Apr. 29, 1999, and utility application Ser. No.09/561,023, filed Apr. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,553,308, which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties. Where the vehicleis equipped with a GPS system, the GPS system can monitor the movementof the vehicle, and by knowing that the vehicle has moved from onelocation to another, and because the GPS knows the geographic positionof both locations relative to each other, the navigation system candetermine the directional heading of the vehicle, and furnish this as acompass heading signal for display as a compass display such as at theinterior mirror assembly and/or on any video display of this presentinvention.

In addition, any of the video displays and/or cameras of the presentinvention may incorporate or comprise a component of a security systemwhich employs various cameras, which can be provided at strategiclocations around the vehicle, including interior cameras and exteriorcameras, and are coupled to a telemetry system and preferably to anavigational system such as a GPS system. Interior-cabin viewing (and/orexterior viewing) cameras can be located in or at the interior rearviewmirror assembly (and/or in or at either or both of the exterior sideview mirror assemblies mounted to the side of the vehicle) and/or in orat the front windshield of the vehicle and/or in or at the A-pillarsand/or in or at another location in the cabin such as a B-pillar or aC-pillar or a roof area. Also, the vehicle can be equipped withtelemetry and GPS systems. Optionally, one or more of the cameras of thevehicle may be equipped with infrared LED light emitting sources, suchas are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/025,712, filedFeb. 18, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,087,953, and U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613,and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/561,023, filed Apr. 28, 2000,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,553,308, and in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/466,010, filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975, which areall incorporated by reference herein in their entireties, in order tolight up an area in or around the vehicle when it is dark. When anintrusion detector such as a motion detector (preferably apyrodetector-based intrusion detection system such as is disclosed incommonly assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/901,929, filedJul. 27, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,166,625, and commonly assigned U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/516,831, filed Mar. 1, 2000, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,390,529, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/275,565,filed Mar. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,086,131, the disclosures ofwhich are herein incorporated by reference herein in their entireties)is triggered by, for example, someone attempting to break into thevehicle or steal the vehicle, the vehicle-based security system triggersimages captured by the vehicular camera(s) to be downloaded to thetelemetry system which then forwards by wireless telecommunication (suchas by radio frequency or by microwave transmission) the images (or asecurity alert signal derived from an in-vehicle image analysis of thecaptured images) to a security service, a mobile device in thepossession of the driver of the vehicle when he/she is remote from theparked vehicle (such as a key-fob or a Palm Pilot™ PDA), the cell phoneof the vehicle owner, the home computer of the vehicle owner or thepolice or the like that is remote and distant from the vehicle where thesecurity condition is being detected. Preferably, the in-vehiclecamera-based security system silently and secretly records the eventsoccurring in and/or around the vehicle while it is operating (such aswhen idling in traffic or moving on a highway or stopped at a trafficlight) and provides a “black box” recording of activities in theinterior of the vehicle or exterior of the vehicle. For example, thesecurity system may be used to record or document vehicle statusincluding speed, brake activation, vehicle control status signals (forexample, whether the turn signal has been actuated, vehicle traction,tire pressures, yaw and roll, geographic location, time and date) andother vehicle information as well as record visual images detected bythe cameras. In an accident, such vehicle performance/function data incombination with a visual recording of the interior and/or exteriorvehicular scene (and optionally, a microphone recording of sounds/voicesinterior and/or exterior to the vehicle) can help insurance and policeinvestigators establish the causes and conditions of an accident. Thecamera-based vehicle performance/function recording system of thevehicle preferably records data onto a recording medium (such as ontoelectronic memory or onto digital recording tape) that is rugged andprotected from the consequences of an accident so as to survive theimpact forces, shocks, fires and other events possible in an automobileaccident. Preferably, any electronic memory utilized is non-volatilememory that is non-erasing in the event of electrical power loss in thevehicle. For example, the camera-based in-vehicle security system mayinclude an electronic memory recording medium and/or a video tape(preferably a digital) recording medium so that a pre-determined periodof operation of the vehicle, such as up to the last about 1 minute ofvehicle operation, more preferably up to the last about 5 minutes ofvehicle operation, most preferably up to the last about 15 minutes ofvehicle operation, or even greater, is continuously recorded (such as ona closed-loop tape or electronic recording that continually records themost recent events inside and/or outside the road transportationvehicle). The camera-based in-vehicle security system can maintain thestored images and/or vehicle data in the vehicle for downloading whendesired such as after an accident. Alternately, the camera-basedin-vehicle security system can transmit the images and/or vehicle databy wireless communication to a remote receiver such as a receiverdistant and remote from the vehicle (such as at a security system or atelematic service such as ONSTAR™ or RESCU™ or at the vehicle ownershome or at a car rental center). This can occur continuously while thevehicle is being operated, so that in the event an accident occurs,retrieval and analysis of the recorded information is not impeded suchas by damage or even loss of the vehicle in the accident. Also, theremote receiver of the information can alert authorities (such as apolice, fire and/or ambulance service) of an accident immediately whensuch accident occurs (and thus potentially speed aid to any accidentvictims and/or dispatch the correct medical aid for the type ofaccident/injuries recorded by the camera(s)). The recorded informationcan include the gear in which the driver is operating the vehicle, theactivation of the brakes, the speed at which the driver is traveling,the rate of acceleration/deceleration, the time, date and geographiclocation, the atmospheric conditions including lightingconditions—basically, the system can record what happened during acollision whereby the system provides an information recordationfunction. For example, when the system is used to record an accidentwhen the vehicle is operating, the cameras may record scenes, vehicleinstrument/function status, or the like which are kept on a tape ornon-volatile electronic, solid-state memory, for example a continuousloop tape or electronic memory. Alternately, this information can becontinuously transmitted or downloaded. For example, the information canbe downloaded in response to a selected stimuli or trigger, such as whenthe brakes are activated, the air bag or bags are activated, when thehorn is operated, or when the car de-accelerates, or the like. Forexample, the system may use accelerometers such as disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/440,497, filed Nov. 15, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,411,204, and, furthermore, may be combined with thedeceleration based anti-collision safety light control system describedin the aforementioned application, the disclosure of which isincorporated by reference in its entirety herein. This informationrecordation function can be used, as noted above, to record bothinterior activities and exterior activities and, therefore, can be usedas noted above as a security system as well. When the system is used asa security system, the telemetry system may contact the security basewho in turn can scroll through the camera images to determine whetherthe alarm is a true or false alarm. In this manner, various existingsystems that are provided in the vehicle may be optionally usedindividually to provide one or more functions or collectively to provideeven further or enhanced functions.

Examples of camera locations where vehicular cameras included in avehicular camera-based accident recording system can be located includeinterior and exterior mirror assembly locations, roof areas such as aheadliner or header console, front, side and rear exterior body areassuch as front grilles, rear doors/trunk areas, side doors, side panels,door handles, CHMSL units, interior body pillars (such as an A-, B- orC-interior pillar) and seat backs, and such as are disclosed in commonlyassigned U.S. provisional Application Ser. No. 60/187,961, filed Mar. 9,2000; commonly assigned U.S. provisional application Ser. No.60/192,721, filed Mar. 27, 2000; commonly assigned U.S. provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/186,520, filed Mar. 1, 2000; and in U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,877,897; 5,760,962; 5,959,367; 5,929,786; 5,949,331; 5,914,815;5,786,772; 5,798,575 and 5,670,935; and U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/304,201, filed May 3, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,198,409; Ser. No.09/375,315, filed Aug. 16, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,175,164; Ser. No.09/199,907 filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,717,610; Ser. No.09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642; Ser. No.09/372,915, filed Aug. 12, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,396,397; Ser. No.09/304,201, filed May 3, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,198,409; and Ser. No.09/313,139, filed May 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,222,447, which areall commonly assigned, the disclosures of which are herein incorporatedby reference in their entireties. For example, a camera, preferably asolid-state CMOS video camera, can be located within the interior cabinof the vehicle (and preferably located at, on or within the interiorrearview mirror assembly or at or in an A-pillar), and adapted tocapture a surveillance image of the front and rear occupants of thevehicle. In this regard, locating the interior cabin surveillance cameraat, on or within the interior rearview mirror assembly is preferred asthis location provides the camera with a good rearward field of viewthat captures an image of all front and rear seat occupants. Preferably,the vehicle is also equipped with the in-vehicle portion of a wirelesscommunication telematic system such as an ONSTAR™ or RESCU™ system, andthe geographic location of the vehicle can also be established by anavigational system, such as an in-vehicle GPS system. Images of theinterior vehicle cabin (including images of the various vehicleoccupants) can be captured by the in-vehicle image capture device,preferably an interior mirror-mounted video camera, and thisinformation, in conjunction with the geographic location of the vehicleprovided by a position locator such as a GPS system, along with variousvehicle information/function data such as the state of activation of anyair bag in the vehicle, can be communicated by wirelesstelecommunication to an external service remote from the vehicle such asan ONSTAR™ or RESCU™ service. Such communication can be periodic (suchas when the ignition is first turned on during a particular trip, orinitially when the ignition is first turned on and intermittentlythereafter, such as every about 1 minute or so) or continuous duringoperation of the vehicle with its engine turned on. Should the receiverat the remote service be alerted that an accident has occurred (such asby receiving from the vehicle via wireless telematic communication anaccident alert signal indicative that an air bag has activated), theremote receiver (which can be an ONSTAR™ operator or an automaticcomputer-based image analyzer or an emergency service such as a “911”service provider) can count, via the video imaged relayed from thevehicle, the number of occupants in the vehicle and can accordinglyalert emergency services as to the location of the accident and thenumber of victims involved (thus ensuring that the appropriate numberof, for example, ambulances are dispatched to deal with the actualnumber of potential victims in the vehicle at the time of the crash).Optionally, the owner/driver of the vehicle can register/notify theremote telematic service of any special medical needs, blood types andthe likes of the likely driver(s) and/or likely occupants (such asfamily members) along with any next-of-kin information, insurancecoverage and the like so that, in the event the like of an ONSTAR™ orRESCU™ telematic service or telematically-linked “911” emergencyresponse service determines an accident has occurred, medical andemergency relief specific to the likely/actual occupants of the vehiclecan be dispatched. Likewise, should an in-vehicle fire be detected suchas by visual determination via image analysis of video imagestelematically transmitted and/or by an in-vehicle temperature probetransmitting data telematically, then the fire brigade can beautomatically sent to the crash site and/or an in-vehicle fireextinguisher can be activated to put out any fire (either by remote,wireless activation by the telematic service of the in-vehicle fireextinguisher or by automatic in-vehicle image analysis of the imagerecorded by an interior or exterior camera of the vehicle that, uponin-vehicle image analysis determining that a fire has occurred in thevehicle, causes a vehicular on-board fire extinguisher to actuate to putout the fire). Also, either remotely or via in-vehicle image analysis,the engine of the vehicle can be turned off after an accident has beendetected via the vehicular camera system.

A variety of other electrical and electronic features can beincorporated into the assemblies of the present invention, such as thosedisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. For example, a microphone or a plurality ofmicrophones may be incorporated, preferably to provide hands-free inputto a wireless telecommunication system such as the ONSTAR™ system in usein General Motors vehicles. Most preferably, such microphones provideinput to an audio system that transmits and communicates wirelessly witha remote transceiver, preferably in voice recognition mode. Such systemsare described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug.25, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,243,003, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein.

In this regard it may be desirable to use audio processing techniques,such as digital sound processing, to ensure that vocal inputs to thevehicular audio system are clearly distinguished from cabin ambientnoise such as from wind noise, HVAC, and the like. Digital soundprocessing techniques, as known in the acoustics arts and such as aredisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 4,959,865 (the disclosure of whichincorporated by reference herein), are particularly useful to enhanceclarity of vocal signal detection when a single microphone is used,located in the interior mirror assembly such as in the mirror casingthat houses the interior mirror reflective element, as part of avehicular wireless communication system such as General Motors' ONSTAR™system. Use of digital signal processing and a single mirror-mountedmicrophone (such as is described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377, thedisclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein) is particularlyadvantageous for economical achievement of clear and error-freetransmission from the vehicle, while operating along a highway, to aremote receiver, particularly in speech-recognition mode. Althoughadvantageous with a single mirror-mounted microphone (or for amicrophone mounted elsewhere in the vehicle cabin such as in the headerregion), digital sound processing is also beneficial when multiplemicrophones are used, and preferably when at least two and morepreferably at least four microphones are used.

As previously described, connection and communication between the videodisplays and/or the cameras and/or other electronic accessories of thepresent invention can be by wired connection (including multi-elementcables, wired multiplex links and fiber-optic cables) and/or by wirelessconnection/communication (such as by infrared communication and/or byradio frequency communication such as via BLUETOOTH, described below).

For example, any of the video displays of the present invention mayinclude a display of the speed limit applicable to the location wherethe vehicle is travelling. Conventionally, speed limits are posted as afixed limit (for example, 45 MPH) that is read by the vehicle driverupon passing a sign. As an improvement to this, an information display(preferably an alphanumerical display and, more preferably, areconfigurable display) can be provided within the vehicle cabin, andpreferably displayed by a video display of the present invention, andreadable by the driver, that displays the speed limit at whateverlocation on the road/highway the vehicle actually is at any moment. Forexample, existing speed limit signs could be enhanced to include atransmitter that broadcasts a local speed limit signal, such signalbeing received by an in-vehicle receiver and displayed to the driver.The speed limit signal can be transmitted by a variety of wirelesstransmission methods, such as radio transmission, and such systems canbenefit from wireless transmission protocols and standards, such as theBLUETOOTH low-cost, low-power radio based cable replacement or wirelesslink based on short-range radio-based technology. BLUETOOTH enablescreation of a short-range (typically 30 feet or so although longer andshorter ranges are possible), wireless personal area network via smallradio transmitters built into various devices. For example, transmissioncan be on a 2.45 gigahertz band, moving data at about 721 kilobits persecond, or faster. BLUETOOTH, and similar systems, allow creation of anin-vehicle area network. Conventionally, features and accessories in thevehicle are wired together. Thus, for example, an interiorelectrochromic mirror and an exterior electrochromic mirror is connectedby at least one wire in order to transmit control signal and the like.With BLUETOOTH and similar systems, control commands can be broadcastbetween the interior mirror and the exterior mirror (and vice versa) orbetween a camera capturing an image in a horse box (or any other towedtrailer) being towed by a vehicle and a video display located at thewindshield or at the interior rearview mirror or at or adjacent to anA-pillar of that vehicle that is viewable by the vehicle driver withoutthe need for physical wiring interconnecting the two. Likewise, forexample, the two exterior mirror assemblies on the vehicle can exchange,transmit and/or receive control commands/signals (such as of memoryposition or the like such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575,the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) viaan in-vehicle short-range radio local network such as BLUETOOTH.Similarly, tire pressure sensors in the wheels can transmit viaBLUETOOTH to a receiver in the interior mirror assembly, and tirepressure status (such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/513,941, filed Feb. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,989, which isincorporated by reference herein in its entirety) can be displayed,preferably at the interior rearview mirror. In the case of the dynamicspeed limit system described above, preferably, the in-vehicle receiveris located at and/or the display of local speed limit is displayed atthe interior mirror assembly (for example, a speed limit display can belocated in a chin or eyebrow portion of the mirror case, such as in themirror reflector itself, or such as in a pod attached to the interiormirror assembly), or can be displayed on any video display of thepresent invention. More preferably, the actual speed of the vehicle canbe displayed simultaneously with and beside the local speed limitin-vehicle display and/or the difference or excess thereto can bedisplayed. Optionally, the wireless-based speed limit transmissionsystem can actually control the speed at which a subject vehicle travelsin a certain location (such as by controlling an engine governor or thelike) and thereby provide a vehicle speed control function. Thus, forexample, a school zone speed limit can be enforced by transmission of aspeed-limiting signal into the vehicle. Likewise, different classes ofvehicles can be set for different speed limits for the same stretch ofhighway. The system may also require driver identification and then setindividual speed limits for individual drivers reflecting their skilllevel, age, driving record and the like. Moreover, a global positioningsystem (GPS) can be used to locate a specific vehicle, calculate itsvelocity on the highway, verify what the allowed speed limit is at thatspecific moment on that specific stretch of highway, transmit thatspecific speed limit to the vehicle for display (preferably at theinterior rearview mirror that the driver constantly looks at as part ofthe driving task) and optionally alert the driver or retard the driver'sability to exceed the speed limit as deemed appropriate. A short-range,local communication system such as envisaged in the BLUETOOTH protocolfinds broad utility in vehicular applications, and particularly whereinformation is to be displayed at the interior mirror assembly or on anyvideo display of the present invention, or where a microphone oruser-interface (such as buttons to connect/interact with a remotewireless receiver) is to be located at the interior (or exterior)rearview mirror assembly. For example, a train approaching a railwaycrossing may transmit a wireless signal such as a radio signal (usingthe BLUETOOTH protocol or another protocol) and that signal may bereceived by and/or displayed at the interior rearview mirror assembly(or the exterior side view mirror assembly) or any video display of thepresent invention. Also, the interior rearview mirror and/or theexterior side view mirrors and/or any video display of the presentinvention can function as transceivers/display locations/interfacelocations for intelligent vehicle highway systems, using protocols suchas the BLUETOOTH protocol. Protocols such as BLUETOOTH, as known in thetelecommunications art, can facilitate voice/data, voice over data,digital and analog communication and vehicle/external wirelessconnectivity, preferably using the interior and/or exterior mirrorassemblies as transceiver/display/user-interaction sites. Electronicaccessories to achieve the above can be accommodated in any of the videodisplays/video mirrors/camera assemblies of the present invention,and/or in the interior mirror assembly (such as in the housing disclosedin U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613.

When displaying an output of a navigational system such as a GPS system,any of the video displays of the present invention, and/or analphanumerical display such as a vacuum fluorescent display located inthe vehicle cabin such as at the interior rearview mirror assembly, candisplay to the driver the name of the next street being approached bythe vehicle (or the identity of the next highway exit being approached).Often when approaching a junction, the driver cannot readily read thestreet sign posted at the corners. By using a vehicular GPS systemand/or a telematic system, the name of the cross-street being approachedor the side-street being approached or the highway on/off ramp beingapproached can be displayed to the driver, such as via a multi-pixel VFdisplay in the chin or eyebrow region of the interior mirror casing, sothat the driver can readily determine where he or she is, and candetermine the identity, for example, of the cross-street next to beapproached.

Also any of the video displays/video mirrors/camera assemblies of thepresent invention, and/or in the interior mirror assembly can functionas part of a telematic system such as ONSTAR™ or RESCU™ or as part ofany telecommunication system or telephone system (including a videophone system) or as part of any computer communication system includingINTERNET connection.

Preferably, the reflective electrochromic elements in any video mirrorassembly of the present invention comprises a front substrate and a rearsubstrate with an electrochromic medium disposed between, such as asolid polymer matrix electrochromic medium such as is disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/350,930, filed Jul. 12, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,154,306, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Most preferably, the front substratecomprises a glass plate of thickness less than about 1.6 mm, mostpreferably about 1.1 mm thickness or lower, and the rear substratecomprises a glass plate of thickness equal to or greater than about 1.6mm, more preferably greater than about 1.8 mm thickness, most preferablyequal to or greater than about 2.0 mm thickness. The rearmost surface ofthe rear substrate (the fourth surface as known in the mirror art) isreflector coated with a high reflecting metal film such as of aluminumor silver, or an alloy of aluminum or alloy of silver. Most preferably,the frontmost surface of the rear substrate (the third surface as knownin the mirror art) is reflector coated with a high reflecting metal filmsuch as of aluminum or silver, or an alloy of aluminum or alloy ofsilver. Note that use and operation (such as coloration) of anelectrochromic mirror element such as described above can reduce theeffect of radio and electromagnetic interference on any electroniccircuitry (such as circuitry for a video screen, automatic mirrordimming circuitry, sound processing circuitry, compass circuitry)disposed behind the electrochromic mirror element in the cavity of thecasing of the interior rearview mirror assembly.

Optionally, the front surface of the front substrate (i.e. the firstsurface as known in the art) of any video display or screen, videomirror element or camera lens/cover of the present invention can becoated with a surface coating or otherwise modified so as to reduce thebuild-up of condensation or mist such as can occur in humid climates.For example, the front surface (which is the surface upon whichcondensation/mist might gather or which would be subject to raindropsshould the vehicle be a convertible and be driven with hood down duringrain) may be optionally coated with a water wetting characteristicmodification coating such as a hydrophilic coating such as aphotocatalytic hydrophilic coating system such as is disclosed inJapanese Pat. Abstract JP11050006A, issued Feb. 23, 1999, entitled“PRETREATMENT OF SURFACE FORMING PHOTOCATALYTIC HYDROPHILIC FILM ANDCLEANING AGENT AND UNDERCOATING COMPOSITION USED THEREIN”, to Mitsumasaet al. of Toto Ltd., and in JP10330131A, issued Dec. 15, 1998, entitled“HYDROPHILIC THIN FILM AND VEHICULAR MIRROR AND GLASS PRODUCT USING THESAME HYDROPHILIC THIN FILM”, to Tsutomu et al of Ichikoh Ind. Ltd., andin JP10036144A, issued Feb. 10, 1998, entitled “ANTIFOGGING ELEMENT”, toToru et al of Murakami Corporation, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,724,187, theentire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.Also, such wetting characteristic modification coatings and techniques,such as photocatalytic hydrophilic coatings, can be used for the first(frontmost) surface of a non-electrochromic reflective element used in avideo mirror assembly such as a prismatic interior mirror reflectiveelement (and for the first surface of electrochromic exterior mirrorreflective elements of video mirror assemblies and of metal coatedexterior mirror elements, such as chromium coated, exteriornon-electrochromic mirror reflective elements used with rear-mountedcameras).

Note that it is desirable and preferable for the present invention touse switching power supplies comprising a switching regulator circuit(such as are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/347,807,filed Jul. 2, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,317,248, the entire disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference herein), and particularlyfor electrically operated automotive devices and accessories such asdisclosed herein. Such switching power supplies preferably comprise aswitching regulator (such as National LM78S40 available from NationalSemiconductor, Santa Clara, Calif.)) and pulse width modulation toachieve a DC to DC voltage conversion with enhanced conversionefficiency and minimized power dissipation. Also, the systems of thepresent invention can be powered by 12V or 42V vehicle ignition/batterysystems.

Optionally, any of the assemblies of this present invention may includeat least light such as a map/reading/courtesy light or an area light,most preferably comprising a non-incandescent lamp such as a lightemitting diode (LED) array (most preferably, each such array comprisingat least one, and more preferably a plurality of at least two, whitelight-emitting diodes such as are disclosed in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/249,979, filed February 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,152,590,the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by referenceherein). Suitable white light-emitting diodes are available from NichiaAmerica Corp. of Mountville, Pa., under the trade designation NichiaNSPW500BS, 5.6 C.P. White. Preferably, such mirror-mounted map lightsuse at least one white light-emitting LED light source, more preferablyat least two white light-emitting LED light sources, and most preferablyat least three white light-emitting LED light sources as the lamp forillumination purposes. Other non-incandescent light sources can be usedfor mirror-mounted lights (both interior rearview mirrorassembly-mounted illuminators and exterior side view mirrorassembly-mounted illuminators) and/or for baby-seat illuminators orreverse-aid illuminators. For example, fluorescent light sources such ascold-cathode fluorescent lamps can be used, or neon light sources can beused. Alternately, luminescent light sources such as comprising aninorganic electroluminescent light source or, preferably, an organicelectroluminescent light source can be used in map/reading/courtesylighting in automotive rearview mirror assemblies and in securitylighting/ground illumination and signal lighting in exterior side viewmirror assemblies and in areas illumination such as for reversing ofchild-seat illumination, or may comprise an organic light emittingdiode. Also, a laser light source, or a multiple-laser light source canbe used for illumination from automotive mirror assemblies, such as formap, reading and/or courtesy lighting at, in, or on an interior rearviewmirror assembly or for security lighting/ground illumination lightingfrom, or signal lighting from, an exterior side view mirror assembly orfor illumination of the field of view of vehicular cameras such as toilluminate the region immediately to the rear when reversing or toilluminate a child-seat on a rear seat. Laser lighting (as well as theother light sources described above) can thus be used to provideillumination for vehicle-mounted cameras, such as back-up cameras orforward-facing cameras or interior cabin monitoring cameras such as babymonitoring cameras such as are disclosed in U.S. provisional ApplicationSer. No. 60/186,520, filed Mar. 1, 2000, U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/466,010, filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975; andU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377; Ser. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug. 25, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,243,003; Ser. No. 09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172; Ser. No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613; Ser. No. 09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000; andSer. No. 09/448,700, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925,the disclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference.For night vision purposes (such as with forward facing cameras or whenviewing a child at night in a darkened vehicle cabin or trapped in adarkened vehicle trunk compartment), use of near-infrared light emittingsources, and in particular near-IR emitting LEDs and lasers, isdesirable in order to provide illumination for a night-viewing camerawhile avoiding glaring with visible light, as disclosed in commonlyassigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/952,026, filed Nov. 19,1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,498,620, the disclosure of which is herebyincorporated herein by reference. Note that, optionally, such night-timeilluminating LED light sources are controlled by a vehicle-mountedphotosensor (such as a photosensor incorporated into the interiorrearview mirror assembly) whereby, at high ambient lighting aroundand/or in the vehicle such as during daytime, operation of the lightsources is disabled in order to reduce power consumption whenillumination by the light sources is not needed due to the adequateambient lighting provided around the vehicle such as by the sun. Wheremultiple laser sources are used, the light output of lasers emittinglight of different non-white colors (for example, three blue emittinglasers and three amber lasers) can be combined to illuminate withmetameric white light such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,803,579and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,136,483, the entire disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein. Such laser automotive lighting(or any other of the light sources described above), and preferablywhite-light laser or white-light LED lighting or white-light neonlighting, can be used in a variety of automotive lighting applicationsbesides mirror-mounted lighting, such as lighted automotive vanitymirrors, dome lights, parking lights, CHMSL lights, reversing lights,running board lights, side marker lights, turn signal lights, brakelights, fog lights, taillights, rail lamps, headlights, spot lights, ashtray lights, trunk compartment lights, storage compartment lights,console lights and the like. Also, optionally and preferably, a lightpipe and/or optical elements such as lenses, diffusers and reflectorscan be used in conjunction with a laser light source (or any other ofthe light sources described above), preferably a white-light producinglaser source, in order to distribute/project light within or out fromthe vehicle, and/or to expand or direct/project the laser-generatedlight beam. Most preferably, at least one diffractive optical element isused in conjunction with an automotive light source (such as a laserlight source or any of the others sources described above).

Mounting a camera within the interior cabin of the vehicle hasadvantages in that it is not exposed to the external climatic andenvironmental elements (rain, road splash, contaminants, car washes,frost etc.). Thus, in some vehicles, it is advantageous to mount acamera at a window of the vehicle but with its field of view directed toview through the vehicle window to view a region (typically the road butalso possibly pedestrians, other road traffic and the like) external tothe vehicle. For SUV's and vans such as the MY2000 Ford Excursion wherethe rear window is essentially at the rear of the vehicle (as comparedto, for example, a sedan such as the MY2000 Lincoln Continental wherethe rear window is not at the rear of the vehicle. In the Continental asin many sedans, the rear trunk is behind the rear window), it ispossible to mount a rear facing camera 3810, as shown in FIGS. 38A and38B, behind rear window 3820 within the interior cabin of the vehicle.Camera 3810 is oriented with its principal field of view directeddownward towards the road surface to capture an image of the road to theimmediate rear of the vehicle. Note that camera 3820 can optionally beincorporated into a CHMSL light. Camera 3830 is mounted exterior tovehicle rear window 3820, and is a preferred location if viewing closeup to the rear fender of the vehicle is desired. Optionally, camera 3830(or any camera of the present invention) can have a field of view and/orzoom and/or iris (both mechanical and electro-optic) that isuser-adjustable (such as by motorized adjustment by the driver of thedirection the camera lens is facing via a toggle control and/or bysoftware manipulation of the image output of the camera displayed on thevideo display to allow a digital zoom/digital variation of field ofview, or by motorized adjustment of a zoom lens or an iris).

FIGS. 39A and 39B show a video mirror system 3900 that includes a videodisplay assembly 3910 that is adjustably and removably mounted towindshield 3920 of a Ford Excursion vehicle by the use of a double-ballmount, as previously described.

FIGS. 40A and 40B show a video mirror assembly 4000 that includes avideo display 4046 included in an electrochromic rearview mirrorassembly 4030. Video mirror assembly 4000 includes three user-actuatablecontrols. Control 4050 allows a user turn on/off video display 4046.Control 4060 allows the user turn on/off and select a light that isdirected to illuminate a region in or around the vehicle that is desiredviewed by a camera or cameras of the vehicle. Control 4070 allowsselection of one or none of a set of cameras included in the vehicle (orto turn on/off a single camera of the vehicle). As shown, controls 4050,4060, 4070 are push-actuated switches. Other input devices are possibleincluding by voice command and by a touch screen, as previouslydescribed. Assembly 4000 is equipped with a potentiometer control(mounted to the rear of the mirror assembly 4030) that allows a userincrease or decrease the intensity of display 4046. Other locations onassembly 4000 are possible for controls 4050, 4060, 4070 and/or for thedisplay intensity control (such as placing this at the front bezelportion of mirror assembly 4030). Also, automatic intensity controlunder control of a photo sensor, such as is described above, ispossible.

FIGS. 41A and 41B show a “Plug and View” video camera module 4100equipped with a video camera 4120 and four light emitting diodes4130-4133 that are orientated to illuminate the field of view of camera4120. As shown in FIGS. 41A and 41B, camera module 4100 (that preferablyis a baby-minder camera module) releasably and removably attaches tocamera module receiving station 4160 that is mounted to roof structure4150 of a Ford Excursion vehicle. Camera module 4100 plugs intoreceiving station 4160. As seen in FIGS. 42A and 42B, the underside ofcamera module 4200 is equipped with plug connectors 4210-4214 thatconnect with and plug into plug socket connectors 4220-4224 of camerareceiving station 4260, and thus making both electrical contact (toreceive power from station 4260 and to deliver video image output tostation 4260 for transmission to a video display elsewhere in thevehicle). Note that, preferably, camera modules of the present inventionare sealed so as to be substantially moisture impervious.

FIG. 43 shows an embodiment of a video mirror system 4300 in whichA-pillar-mounted video displays 4346, 4356 are incorporated,respectively, in A-pillars 4370, 4380. In FIG. 43, A-pillar-mountedvideo displays 4346, 4356 are located at the lower portion of A-pillars4370, 4380 and so are located adjacent to exterior mirror assemblies4390, 4395 (and thus are a preferred location for video displays thatsupplement and/or replace exterior mirror assemblies 4390, 4395). Forexample, should exterior mirror assemblies 4390,4395 be equipped withblind spot cameras as previously described, then location ofA-pillar-mounted video displays 4346,4356 as in FIG. 43 renders themsuitable for a driver to view the blind-spot image display at the lowerportion of the A-pillar when he/she looks at a side mirror whencontemplating a lane change.

FIG. 44 shows an embodiment of a video mirror system 4400 of theinvention where A-pillar-mounted video displays 4446,4456 areincorporated, respectively, in A-pillars 4470, 4480. In FIG. 44,A-pillar-mounted video displays 4446, 4456 are located at the upperportion of A-pillars 4470, 4480. This location is preferred for A-pillarlocation of displays of back-up cameras and baby-minder cameras.

Referring to FIGS. 45 and 46, another embodiment of a video mirrorsystem 4500 of the present invention is illustrated. Video mirror system4500 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 4510 and a videodisplay assembly 4512. Interior rearview mirror assembly 4510 maycomprise one of a plurality of types of interior rearview mirrorassemblies and preferably includes a mirror housing or casing 4514 and areflective element 4516, such as a variable reflectance reflectiveelement, including, for example a prismatic reflective element or anelectrochromic reflective element. Reference is made to the previousembodiments for further details of suitable reflective elements andhousings which can be incorporated in video mirror system 4500.

In the illustrated embodiment, interior rearview mirror assembly 4510 ismounted to a vehicle windshield 4518 by a mirror attachment button 4536(using a break-away/demountable connection) that is part of channelmember 4534 of video display assembly 4512. Examples of mirrorattachment buttons and break-away/demountable connections are describedin U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,487,522; 5,671,996; 5,813,745; 5,673,994; 5,820,097;5,708,410; 5,576,687; 5,521,760; 5,572,354; 5,330,149; 5,100,095;5,058,851; 4,930,742; 4,936,533; 4,436,371; 4,524,941; 4,435,042;4,646,210; or U.S. patent application Ser. No. 08/781,408, filed Jan.10, 1997, now U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,097, all commonly assigned, thedisclosures of which are hereby incorporated herein by reference intheir entireties. Windshield mirror mounting button 4520 (to whichchannel member 4534 of video assembly 4512 attaches, preferably via abreak-away/demountable attachment as described above) is mounted towindshield 4518, for example by adhering mounting button 4520 towindshield 4518 using an adhesive 4520 a, for example PVB, silicone, orepoxy structural adhesives.

Preferably, mirror housing 4514 is adjustable about two axes and ispreferably mounted using a dual-ball mount support 4522, such asdescribed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,708,410 or U.S. Pat. No.5,671,996, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by referencein their entireties. Reference is also made to U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/470,791, filed Dec. 23, 1999, U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,193, andU.S. provisional Application, Ser. No. 60/257,477, filed Dec. 21, 2000,for suitable ball mount supports, the entire disclosures of which areincorporated by reference herein. However, optionally, a single-ballmount support, as known in the mirror arts, can be used. Support 4522includes a support arm 4524 and a mirror assembly mount 4526, such as achannel member, which is adapted to mount to a mirror mounting button.Support arm 4524 is pivotally coupled to housing 4514 on one end andpivotally coupled to mirror mount 4526 on another end to thereby providemulti-axis positioning for housing 4514 and, in turn, reflective element4516 so as to permit adjustment of the rearward field of view for thedriver of the vehicle. For example, support arm 4524 may include one ormore ball members 4524 b and 4524 a or may include receptacles or ballsockets for receiving ball members which are respectively mounted tohousing 4514 and/or to mirror mount 4526. Therefore, in addition toproviding a tilting adjustment, support 4522 permits housing 4514 tomove up and down and side-to-side.

Video display assembly 4512 preferably comprises a flip-down swivelableassembly which includes a video screen housing 4530 and a video screen4531. Video screen housing 4530 is preferably pivotally mounted to avideo display support 4532, which mounts to windshield mirror mountingbutton 4520, as will be more fully described below. In addition, videodisplay assembly 4512 preferably includes an electronic element 4542,such as an electronic circuit board, and one or more user actuatablebuttons 4544 or the like, which may, for example, be used to activatescreen 4531 and/or other functions within the vehicle. In addition,buttons 4544 may be used to communicate with persons or systemsexteriorly of the vehicle such as with a telematic, vehicular wirelesscommunication system such as the ONSTAR® system available from GeneralMotors, remote transaction systems, GPS systems or the like. Preferably,video screen housing 4530 is mounted in the vehicle by a video displaysupport 4532 in a manner that permits the video screen housing 4530 tobe stowed at least partially and, more preferably, substantially behindmirror housing 4514 to minimize the intrusion on the forward field ofview of the driver and, most preferably, in a manner which maximizes theforward field of view of the driver when video screen housing 4530 isreturned to its stowed position (FIG. 46). Furthermore, and preferably,video screen housing 4530 is supported in a manner which permits thedriver or an occupant of the vehicle to grasp the housing 4530 and movehousing 4530 for positioning of the housing (up down and side to side)to a desired location for viewing of the video screen 4531.

In the illustrated embodiment, video display support 4532 includes avideo assembly mount member such as channel member 4534 with a mirrorattachment member such as mirror mounting button 4536 formed thereon orattached thereto. Preferably, attachment of channel member 4534 tomirror mounting button 4536 is by a break-away/demountable connectionsuch as described above. Channel member 4534 is preferably of similarconstruction to mirror mount 4526 and is adapted to releasably engagewindshield mirror mounting button 4520. In this manner, channel member4534 may be interposed between mirror mounting button 4520 and interiormirror mount 4526 whereby mirror housing 4514 and video screen housing4530 are commonly supported by mirror mounting button 4520. In order tofacilitate the movement of video screen housing 4530, video displaysupport 4532 preferably includes an articulatable elongate support arm4538, which optionally and preferably includes a plurality of pivotjoints such as pivot joints 4540 a, 4540 b, and 4540 c. Pivot joint 4540a is provided between channel 4534 and an upper portion 4538 a of arm4538 to permit adjustment of arm 4538 about channel 4534. Pivot joint4540 b is preferably generally centrally located along support arm 4538to permit support arm 4538 to bend and, therefore, to facilitateproviding a flip-down movement of housing 4530. Lower portion 4538 b ofmember 4538 includes pivot joint 4540 c at its lower end or portionwhere it couples to housing 4530 to provide pivotal movement of housing4530 about the lower end of support arm 4538. Preferably, pivot joints4540 a, 4540 b, and 4540 c comprise multi-axis pivot joints, forexample, ball joints, similar to the ball joints 4524 a and 4524 b ofsupport arm 4524. In this manner, video screen housing 4530 may bemanipulated to move up and down, side-to-side and to rotate or pivot sothat housing 4530 can be moved to adjust its orientations and, further,move between its stowed position in which housing 4530 is positioned atleast adjacent to and preferably at least partially behind mirrorhousing 4514 (and with video screen housing 4530 orientated generallyparallel to the floor of the vehicle), and its viewing positions inwhich video screen 4531 is positioned preferably below housing 4514 topermit viewing by an occupant or the driver of the vehicle (and withvideo screen housing 4530 orientated generally vertical to the floor ofthe vehicle).

It can be appreciated, that video display assembly 4512, therefore,comprises a part or component which is suitable for an after-marketinstallation or as a dealer-option installation since windshield mirrormounting buttons are typically provided on the vehicle windshield duringmanufacture of the windshield, and thus before shipment to the dealer.For example, when a vehicle is delivered to the dealer, the vehiclewindshield includes a windshield mirror mounting button (such as mirrormounting button 4520) already mounted thereto and an interior rearviewmirror assembly with a mirror mount (such as mount 4536) mounted ontothe mounting button. To install the video display assembly, mirrorassembly mount 4536 can be disconnected to permit channel member 4534 ofvideo display assembly 4512 to be connected to mirror mounting button4520. After channel member 4534 is mounted to button 4520, the interiorrearview mirror assembly 4510 can be reinstalled by connecting mirrormount 4526 to mirror mounting button 4536 of video display assembly4530. Note that the weight of the video display assembly is borne bywindshield mirror mounting attachment member or button 4520 (and not byinterior mirror assembly 4510), and so the weight of the video displayassembly does not directly contribute to vibration of the interiormirror assembly.

Referring to FIG. 46A, as previously mentioned, reflective element 4516may comprise an electro-optic element such as an electrochromicreflective element. In order to control the reflectance level ofelectrochromic reflective element 4516, interior rearview mirrorassembly 4510 preferably includes an electrochromic reflective elementcontrol circuitry 4517. Preferably, control circuitry 4517 is supportedin housing 4514 on a carrier, such as a printed circuit board 4517 a.Carrier 4517 a may be mounted directly to housing 4514 or may besupported on a rear surface 4516 a of reflective element 4516, such asdescribed, for example, in U.S. Pat. No. 5,669,698, which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety. In order to powerelectrochromic reflective element control circuitry 4517, housing 4514includes a connector 4514 a, such as a multi-pin connector. Connector4514 a is coupled to carrier 4517 a and may also be used to power otherfeatures housed in assembly 4510 or video mirror assembly 4500, as willbe described below. Connector 4514 a preferably carries a groundignition line and optionally a reverse inhibit line and any other lines,for accessories including, for example, compass/temperature displays,GPS systems/displays, antennae, garage door openers, rain sensors, maplights, microphones, telematics systems, or the like which may be housedin housing 4514 or elsewhere in system 4500. Also, connector 4514 a maycomprise a connection to a vehicle bus system such as a CAN or LIN bussystem. Connector 4514 a is preferably positioned on the rearward side4514 b of housing 4514 and couples to wiring 4514 c which connects tothe vehicle ignition line. Similarly, video display assembly 4512includes a connector 4530 a for coupling carrier 4542 to the vehicleelectrical system. Preferably, connector 4530 a is mounted to rearwardwall 4530 b of housing 4530. Preferably, connector 4530 a is also amulti pin connector which carries power for various electrical orelectronic components in housing 4530 and, further, may carry signals,such as video signals and/or audio signals for video screen 4531 andvarious other signals or inputs for video display assembly 4512.Preferably, wires 4514 c and 4530 c are carried by a wiring harness 4560to the vehicle electrical system.

Alternately, as best seen in FIG. 46B, connector 4514 a may be coupledto a dual connector or adapter element 4530 a′ which is provided invideo display assembly 4512, with the connection to the electricalsystem of the vehicle made from dual connector 4530 a′ from videodisplay assembly 4512. This is particularly advantageous in aftermarketor dealership installations where wiring harness 4560 (typicallyprovided with the vehicle by the automaker) can be routed to adapterelement 4530 a′, and secondary harness 4514 c′ can then connect from thevideo display assembly to the interior mirror assembly to providewhatever power and signal inputs/outputs are required by the interiormirror assembly.

Referring to FIG. 47, the numeral 4600 generally designates anotherembodiment of a video mirror system according to the present invention.Video mirror system 4600 is of similar general construction to videodisplay system 4500 and includes an interior rearview mirror assembly4610 and a video display assembly 4612. Interior rearview mirrorassembly 4610 includes a mirror housing 4614 and a reflective element4616. Mirror assembly 4610 further includes a support 4622, whichincludes a support arm 4624 and a mirror mount 4626, which is adapted tomount assembly 4610 to a mirror mounting button that is part of videodisplay assembly 4612.

Similar to the previous embodiment, video display assembly 4612 includesa video screen housing 4630 and a video screen 4631 and, further, avideo support 4632 which is interposed between windshield mirrormounting button 4620 and mirror mount 4626 in order to commonly supportvideo display assembly 4612 and interior rearview mirror assembly 4610on windshield button 4620. Support 4632 is also adapted to provide aflip-down movement and, further, to provide a swivel movement forhousing 4630 so that housing 4630 may be moved to its stowed positionsimilar to the stowed position illustrated in FIG. 46, with housing 4630at least partially and more preferably substantially moved behind mirrorhousing 4614.

Note that an advantage of providing such flip-down and swivel freedom ofmovement for the video display assembly of the present invention is thatthe driver (or occupant) can choose whether to flip-down or not thevideo screen whenever the driver (or occupant) desires to view the videoscreen. Thus, this present invention provides occasional viewing of thevideo screen when desired by the driver (or occupant). Having the videoscreen always on and viewable by the driver may not be needed and maynot even be desirable in some circumstances as such could potentially bedistracting to the driver and/or potentially intrusive into the forwardfield of view of the driver. For example, a driver may not always wantto view a GPS data display or the driver may not always want to view achild-minder system display or the driver may simply not want to viewany display at all, on occasions. Using the present invention, the videodisplay system includes means for occasional viewing whereby the videodisplay can be positioned for viewing by the driver (or optionally by afront seat passenger) at the height and viewing angle desired by thedriver (or front-seat passenger) when desired, and when not desired, thevideo display can be moved to stow unobtrusively adjacent to or behindthe interior rearview mirror assembly.

Preferably, the mounting of the video display assembly to the windshieldmounting button is via a detachable, break-away, demountable mount thatreplicates the mount on the interior rearview mirror assembly. This hasthe advantage of assuring compliance with governmental and automakerregulations and expectations forimpact/safety/serviceability/assembly-line installation/economy.

In the illustrated embodiment, support 4632 comprises an articulatableelongate support arm 4638 with a fixed upper portion 4638 a, whichincludes a channel member 4634 that is adapted to releasably mount towindshield mirror mounting button 4620 and, further, which includes amirror mounting button 4636 (formed thereon or secured thereto) topermit mirror mount 4626 of interior rearview mirror assembly 4610 tomount to support 4632 to provide a break-away mounting for interiorrearview mirror assembly 4610. In this manner, both interior rearviewmirror assembly 4610 and video display assembly 4612 have break-awaymountings and are mounted in series to button 4620.

Note that various fabrication methods can be used to form or securemirror mounting button 4636 on the attachment portion of the fixed upperportion 4638 a of video display assembly 4612. For example, button 4636can be a molded polymeric structure (such as of an engineering polymermaterial) that is formed by injection molding such as when upperattachment portion 4638 a is itself being molded. Alternately, button4636 can be metal structure (such as a die-case part or a sintered steelpart) that is that is attached by integral injection molding when upperattachment portion 4638 a is itself being molded. Alternately, button4636 can be mechanically or adhesively attached to upper attachmentportion 4638 a.

In preferred form, support 4632 includes a pair of pivot joints 4640 aand 4640 b, with pivot joint 4640 a preferably provided at a generallycentral or medial portion of support arm 4638 so that support 4632 canfold about joint 4640 a to provide a flip-down movement for housing4630. Lower portion 4638 b of support arm 4638 includes pivot joint 4640b between lower portion 4638 b and housing 4630 to permit housing 4630to be pivoted for stowage and, further, to be pivoted to provideadjustment of housing 4630 similar to the previous embodiment. In thismanner, video mirror assembly 4600 provides multi-axis positioning ofhousing 4630 and, further, provides a support which enables the driveror occupant of the vehicle to grab or grasp housing 4630 to repositionhousing 4630 between a desired viewing position and a stowed positionsuch that the forward field of view of the driver is unimpeded by videodisplay assembly 4512 when video display assembly 4512 is moved to itsstowed position.

In preferred form, housing 4630 includes a carrier 4642, such as aprinted circuit board, which is housed in housing 4630 and positionedbehind video screen 4631, and one or more control buttons 4644 which areprovided on housing 4630 and, further, are positioned for access by thedriver or occupants of the vehicle to control, for example, thefunctions or displays on video screen 4631. It can be appreciated fromthe descriptions of the previous embodiments that video display assembly4612 and/or interior rearview mirror assembly 4610 may incorporate anumber of other features, including cameras, microphones, map lights,flashlights, microphones, GPS systems and displays, telematic systemsand components, antennas, garage door openers and rain sensors. Thislist is not limiting and, instead, provides just several examples ofother optional features which may be incorporated in system 4600.

As best seen in FIG. 48, another embodiment of video mirror system 4700is illustrated. Video mirror system 4700 includes an interior rearviewmirror assembly 4710 and a video display assembly 4712, whichincorporates a single pivot support 4732. Similar to the previousembodiment, interior rearview mirror assembly 4710 includes a mirrorhousing 4714 and a reflective element 4716 and, further, a mirrorhousing support 4722. Mirror housing support 4722 includes a mirrormount 4726 and a support arm 4724. Though illustrated with a dual ballmount arrangement, support 4722 may include a fixed support arm or mayinclude a single ball mount arrangement to permit either pivoting ofsupport arm 4724 about mirror mount 4726 or pivoting between support arm4724 and housing 4714, as will be understood by those skilled in theart.

Video display support 4732 comprises an elongate support arm 4738 withan upper fixed portion 4732 a, which is adapted to detachably mount towindshield mirror mounting button 4720. Upper fixed portion 4732 aincludes a mirror mounting button 4736, on which mirror mount 4726 ofmirror assembly 4710 is detachably mounted to provide a break-awayconnection for interior rearview mirror assembly 4710. Lower portion4738 b of support arm 4738 includes a single pivot joint 4740 betweenlower portion 4738 b and video screen housing 4730 of video displayassembly 4712. Pivot point 4740 allows a viewer of video screen 4731 toadjust its viewing angle to suit the need/preference of the driver orfront-seat passenger of the vehicle. Similar to the previous embodiment,video display assembly 4712 includes a video screen 4731, which ishoused in a housing 4730, and a carrier 4742, such as a printed circuitwhich supports electronics for various functions preferably withinassembly 4712, including video screen 4731. Further, video displayassembly 4712 preferably includes at least one control button 4744 whichmay be used, for example, to actuate screen 4731 and/or other functionsprovided by circuit board 4742.

Referring to FIG. 49, another embodiment of a video mirror system 4800is illustrated. Video mirror system 4800 includes an interior rearviewmirror assembly 4810 and a video display assembly 4812, similar to videodisplay 4612. Interior rearview mirror assembly 4810 includes a mirrorhousing 4814 and a reflective element 4816 housed in housing 4814.

In the illustrated embodiment, interior mirror assembly 4810 issupported (preferably via a break-away/demountable attachment) onwindshield mirror button 4820 by an adapter element 4834, which will bemore fully described in reference to FIG. 49A. Interior rearview mirrorassembly 4810 preferably includes a support 4822 which incorporates asupport arm 4824 and a mirror mount 4826. Mirror mount 4826 mountsassembly 4810 onto adapter 4834 via mirror mounting element or button4836 a using a break-away connection of the type previously described inreference to system 4500. Support arm 4824 preferably comprises a dualball mount arrangement; however, it can be appreciated that support arm4824 may incorporate a fixed support arm arrangement or a single pivotarrangement, which are commonly known in the art.

Video display assembly 4812 includes a video screen housing 4830, avideo screen 4831, which is housed in housing 4830, and a carrier 4842,such as a printed circuit board, which supports one or more electronics,preferably including electronics to drive video screen 4831. Inpreferred form, housing 4830 includes one or more control buttons 4844,which are accessible by the driver or other occupants of the vehicle tocontrol, for example, the display or functions displayed on video screen4831. Video screen housing 4830 is also mounted (preferably,break-away/demountably attached) to adapter element 4834 by videodisplay support 4832. Support 4832 is similar to support 4632 andincludes an elongated articulatable support arm 4838 with a pair ofpivot joints 4840 a and 4840 b which permit housing 4830 to pivot aboutsupport 4832 and, further, to permit housing 4830 to be stowed behindmirror housing 4814, similar to the previous embodiment. Upper portion4832 a of support arm 4838 comprises a rigid mount and includes achannel member 4835 which is adapted to engage and form a break-awayconnection with a video display mounting button 4836 b of adapter 4834whereby support 4832 is releasably or detachably mounted to adapter4834, which in turn is detachably mounted to windshield mounting button4820 to provide break-away function for video display assembly 4812. Incontrast, the previous embodiments, it can be appreciated that interiorrearview mirror assembly 4810 and video display assembly 4812 aremounted to button 4820 in parallel rather than in series so that eitheror both assemblies may break-away and/or be demounted independently fromthe other.

In addition, video mirror systems 4500 and/or 4700 may incorporateadapter element 4834. Adapter 4834 is especially useful for aftermarketinstallations and includes a pair of mirror mounting elements such asbuttons 4836 a and 4836 b formed or secured thereon, with, for example,a video support, such as 4532 or 4732, mounting to mounting button 4836b, with the mirror mount, for example mirror mounts 4526 or 4726,mounting to mirror mount button 4836 a.

As best seen in FIG. 49A, adapter 4834 includes a body 4834 a with achannel formed therein 4840, which is sized and configured to engage andform a connection with windshield mirror mount 4820. Although asillustrated in FIG. 49A adapter 4834 includes a fastener 4834 b, such asa screw, which extends into channel 4840 (or makes contact with and/orbutts into the outer surface of) mirror mount 4820 to urge body 4834 ato releasably engage mirror mount 4820, other attachments can be used.For example, adapter 4834 may use a spring clip or the like. For detailsof a spring clip, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 4,936,533, and thepreviously referenced patents, all of which are incorporated byreference herein. For example, break-away mountings and other mountingssuch as disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 4,435,042; 4,524,941; 5,058,851;5,100,095; 5,487,522; 5,615,857 and 5,820,097 (the entire disclosures ofwhich are hereby incorporated by reference herein) can be used.Preferably, adapter 4834 is compact (with a thickness preferably lessthan about 5 cm; more preferably less than about 3.5 cm; mostpreferably, less than about 2.5 cm) so that mounting of the rearviewmirror assembly and of the video display assembly is close to thevehicle windshield).

Referring to FIG. 50, it can be appreciated that video display assembly4812′ may be mounted to upper mirror button 4836 a and interior rearviewmirror assembly 4810′ mounted to lower mirror mount button 4836 b, withsuitable adjustments made to the length and/or configurations of theirrespective supports 4832′ and 4822′. The illustrated embodiment would bemore suitable, for example, in vehicles that have an interior cabin thatis better suited for a lower mounted interior rearview mirror assemblyor that have a higher head liner roof line 4819.

Referring to FIG. 51, the numeral 4900 generally designates anotherembodiment of a video mirror system of the present invention. Videomirror system 4900 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 4910and a video display assembly 4912. Interior rearview mirror assembly4910 is preferably of similar construction to interior rearview mirrorassemblies 4510, 4610, 4710, and 4810; therefore, reference is made tothe previous embodiments for further details. Similar to video mirrorassembly 4800, interior rearview mirror assembly 4910 and video displayassembly 4912 are commonly supported on windshield 4918 on a mountingbutton 4920 by an adapter 4934, which preferably, is adapted to providea break-away connection to mirror mounting button 4920. Adapter 4934 isof similar construction to adapter 4834 and, therefore, reference ismade to the previous embodiment for further details.

Video display assembly 4912 includes a video display housing 4930 and avideo screen 4931, and, further, a carrier 4942, such as a printedcircuit board, which includes at least one and, more preferably, aplurality of electronics that provide a variety of functions, such asdescribed in reference to the previous embodiments. Housing 4930 alsoincludes at least one and, more preferably, a plurality of useractuatable buttons 4944 which are mounted to the rearward facing side ofhousing 4930 and, further, a microphone 4945, which may be used as partof a telephonic or telematic system.

Video display assembly 4912 includes a support mount 4932, whichincludes two pivot joints 4940 a and 4940 b, which permit adjustment ofthe orientation of housing 4930 and, further, permit housing 4930 to bemoved to a stowed position, preferably at least partially and, morepreferably, substantially behind mirror housing 4914 of mirror assembly4910. In the illustrated embodiment, pivot joints 4940 a and 4940 binclude actuators 4941, such as electromechanical actuators, whichpermit support 4932 to automatically pivot by electrical actuation aboutpivot joints 4940 a and 4940 b in response to one or more triggers. Forexample, in the illustrated embodiment, video mirror system 4900preferably includes a rear facing, reverse-aid image capturing device4950, such as a camera, which may be mounted in the vehicle orexteriorly of the vehicle, for example to the bumper of the vehicle orat the rear license plate or at the rear of the trunk deck lid.Optionally and preferably, video screen 4931 may be used to display theimage captured by rear facing image capturing device 4950 to form partof a reverse or backup-aid system. In addition, video mirror system 4910is optionally and preferably in communication with a sensor, whichdetects the shifting of the vehicle's gear shift 4952. For example, whengear shift 4952 is moved to the reverse gear, images captured by rearfacing image capturing device 4950 may be automatically or selectivelydisplayed on video screen 4931. Preferably, images captured by imagecapturing device 4950 override any existing display or displays ondisplay screen 4931. In addition, pivot joints 4940 a and 4940 b may beautomatically pivoted by electromechanical actuators 4941 in order toflip and/or swivel video display housing 4930 to move housing 4930 to aviewing position for the driver or occupants of the vehicle when gearshift 4952 is moved to its reverse position. By the same token, whengear shift 4952 is moved out of reverse gear, for example,electromechanical actuators 4941 optionally automatically move pivotjoints 4940 a and 4940 b to return housing 4930 to its stowed positionpreferably such that at least housing 4930 is at least partially and,more preferably, substantially moved behind housing 4914 of interiorrearview mirror assembly 4910. Signals from the sensor at the gear shift4952 may be transmitted, for example, to an actuator control circuitprovided on carrier 4942 by a wireless connection, such as BLUETOOTH ora similar short range communication protocol or a wire connection, suchas a reverse inhibitor line or the like. Further, an optionally, thepositioning of the video display of the video display system may be partof a vehicle memory system, where individual driver positionalpreferences are electronically stored such that the video screenautomatically adjusts to the position and viewing preferred and presetby an individual driver whenever that driver is driving.

In addition, video mirror system 4900 may include a second imagecapturing device 4946, such as a camera, for internal cabin surveillanceas part of a baby minder system or as parts of a video telecommunicationsystem or the like. In preferred form, camera 4946 is mounted to videodisplay assembly 4912 and, more preferably, to housing 4930, for exampleat an eyebrow area of housing 4930. Again, carrier 4942 preferablyincludes suitable circuitry for camera 4946. Also, a memory system ofthe vehicle that electronically stores individual preference settingsfor potential drivers of the vehicle can be used in conjunction with thepresent invention so that, when the video display moves from its stowedposition to its viewing position, it automatically moves to the viewingposition and angle desired by an individual driver.

Referring to FIG. 52, another embodiment 5000 of the video mirrorsystems of the present invention is illustrated. Video mirror system5000 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 5010 and a videodisplay assembly 5012, which is mounted to interior rearview mirrorassembly 5010, as will be more fully described below. Interior rearviewmirror assembly 5010 includes a mirror housing 5014 and a reflectiveelement 5016, which are mounted to windshield 5018 by a housing support5022. Preferably, housing support 5022 is mounted to windshield 5018 ona mirror mounting button 5020 with a break-away connection to providebreak-away mounting for interior rearview mirror assembly 5010 and videodisplay assembly 5012. Support 5022 includes a support arm 5024 and amirror mount 5026, with support arm 5024 preferably comprising adual-pivot mount arrangement and being pivotally mounted to mirror mount5026 and pivotally mounted to housing 5014 to provide dual axisadjustment of mirror housing 5014. As previously described in referenceto the previous embodiments, support arm 5024 preferably includes atleast two pivot joints 5024 a and 5024 b, such as ball joints, toprovide the dual axis repositioning of housing 5014. Video displayassembly 5012 includes a video screen housing 5030 and a video screen5031, which is housed in housing 5030 along with a carrier 5042, such asa printed circuit board, similar to the previous embodiments.Furthermore, housing 5030 preferably includes one or more actuatablebuttons 5044.

In the illustrated embodiment, housing 5030 is mounted to housingsupport 5022 and, more preferably, to support arm 5024 of interiorrearview mirror assembly 5010 by a video display support 5032. Videodisplay support 5032 includes an elongate articulatable support arm 5038that mounts to support arm 5024 of interior rearview mirror assembly5010. Support arm 5038 includes an upper portion 5038 a which rigidlycouples to support arm 5024 of interior rearview mirror assembly 5010and a lower portion 5038 b which is pivotally connected to upper portion5038 a by a first pivot joint 5040 a. Lower portion 5038 b is coupled tohousing 5030 by a second pivot joint 5040 b. In this manner, housing5030 may be adjusted to a plurality of viewing positions and moved to astowed position in which housing 5030 is at least partially and, morepreferably, substantially moved behind mirror housing 5014 of interiorrearview mirror assembly 5010.

In preferred form, upper portion 5038 a includes a stirrup mount 5034,which extends over support arm 5024 and is clamped thereto to provide arigid mounting of the upper portion 5038 a of support 5038. It can beappreciated that other mounting arrangements may be provided to supportarm 5038 onto support arm 5024. For example, referring to FIG. 53,support arm 5038′ includes a clamp 5034′, such as a spring tensionC-clip attachment, which releasably mounts support arm 5038′ and housing5030′ of video display 5012′ to support arm 5024′. Similar to stirrupmount 5034 and the mounting arrangements of the previous embodiments,clamp 5034′ facilitates installation of video display assembly 5012′ inan after-market installation or dealer-option installation. Alternately,and referring to FIG. 54, support 5038″ of video display assembly 5012″may be mounted directly to mirror mount 5026″, via connecting element orcoupler 5027″, of interior rearview mirror assembly 5010″. Preferably,support 5038″ is releasably coupled to mirror mount 5026″ whereby videodisplay assembly 5012″ may be removed for service or the like. Forexample, mirror mount 5026″ may include a coupler 5027″ which is eitherformed or attached during the mirror mount assembly process or postattached to permit post assembly attachment of video display assembly5012″, similar to the previous embodiments.

As best seen in FIG. 55, video mirror system 5100 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 5110 and a video display assembly 5112 similarto the previous embodiments. Video display assembly 5112 includes avideo screen housing 5130, a video screen 5131, and an electronicscarrier 5142, such as a printed circuit board. Housing 5130 is mountedto support arm 5124 of interior rearview mirror assembly 5110 by a clamp5134 similar to the previous embodiment. Support 5132 comprises anelongate support arm 5138 and includes at least one pivot joint 5140which pivotally mounts housing 5130 to support arm 5138 similar to theprevious embodiments to permit repositioning of housing 5130 and,therefore, video screen 5131, and also to permit housing 5130 to bemoved to a stowed position. In the illustrated embodiment, support 5132includes a coupling connector 5136 which provides a disconnect betweenan upper portion 5138 a of support arm 5138 and a lower portion 5138 bof support arm 5138. In this manner, video screen housing 5130 and lowerportion 5138 b of arm support 5138 may be quickly disconnected forstorage independently of interior rearview mirror assembly 5110.

Referring to FIG. 56, a video mirror system 5200 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 5210 and a video display assembly 5212. Videodisplay assembly 5212 includes a video display housing 5230 and asupport 5232, which is of similar construction to support 4832 describedin reference to FIG. 49. Furthermore, support 5232 and interior rearviewmirror assembly 5210 are commonly mounted to an adapter 5234 which is ofsimilar construction to adapter 4834; therefore, reference is made tovideo mirror assembly 4800 for further details of interior rearviewmirror assembly 5210, support 5232, and adapter 5234.

Housing 5230 of video display assembly 5212 includes a video screen 5231and an electronic carrier 5242, such as a printed circuit board. Inaddition, video display assembly 5212 includes one or more controlbuttons 5244 which are preferably accessible and actuatable by thedriver or other occupants of the vehicle to control, for example, videoscreen 5231 and, furthermore, other user interface functions, such asselecting between displays or functions on video screen 5231, or toactivate certain vehicle functions, such as a loud speaker, radio, CDplayer, one or more lights, a garage door opener, a forward or rearwardfacing camera, a telecommunication device such as a telephone, anantenna, a component of a telematic system such as of an ONSTAR® system,or the like. In addition, optionally and preferably, video displayassembly, 5212 further includes a microphone 5245, which is preferablymounted to a lower chin portion of housing 5230 and, which may be usedas part of a telematic or telephonic system, such as a hands-freecellular phone system of the vehicle. Microphone 5245 may also be usedas a voice activation for other vehicle functions or systems, includingfor use with an ONSTAR® system, a loud speaker, or a remote transactionsystem, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,655 and applicationSer. No. 09/687,778, filed Oct. 13, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,133,which are incorporated herein by reference in their entireties.Furthermore, video display assembly 5212 optionally includes one or moreother vehicle function accessories 5247, such as a compass sensor, anantenna, such as a GPS antenna, a reading light, a trainable garage dooropener (such as available from JCI, Holland, Mich. under the tradenameHOMELINK®), a rain sensor, a loud speaker, or the like.

Preferably, video display assembly 5212 also incorporates an imagecapturing device 5246, such as a camera. Camera 5246 may be mounted, forexample, in housing 5230 and preferably in an eyebrow area of housing5230 and may form part of a baby-minder system, a rearview visionsystem, or part of a telematic system, such as described in reference toprevious embodiments. In this manner, video display assembly 5212 mayincorporate a plurality of functions, including interior vehiclefunctions as well as functions which reach outside of the vehicle, forexample, functions which include telecommunication between a passengeror passengers of the vehicle and a business or person outside of thevehicle.

Referring to FIG. 57, video mirror system 5300 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 5310 and a video display assembly 5312.Interior rearview mirror assembly 5310 includes an interior rearviewmirror housing 5314 and a reflective element 5316 which is supported inhousing 5314, and a housing support arm 5322 which mounts housing 5314to a header mount receiving member 5320, which is mounted to theheadliner or header portion 5318 of the vehicle. Preferably, support5322 is preferably coupled to header mount receiving member 5320 using abreak-away connection 5322 a, as will be more fully described below.

Video display assembly 5312 includes a housing 5330 which houses a videoscreen 5331 and an electronics carrier 5342, such as a printed circuitboard, and, further, at least one or more control buttons 5344 similarto the previous embodiments. Housing 5330 is mounted to header mount5320 by a display support 5332, which provides for adjustment of theorientation of housing 5330 and, further, permits housing 5330 to bemoved from its viewing position as shown in FIG. 57 to a stowed positionwhere housing 5330 is at least partially and, more preferably,substantially moved behind housing 5314 of interior rearview mirrorassembly 5310. Support 5332 preferably includes three pivot joints 5340a, 5340 b and 5340 c, with pivot joint 5340 c coupling a lower end 5338c of support member 5332 to housing 5330 to permit housing 5330 toswivel or pivot about pivot joint 5340 c. Upper portion 5338 a ofsupport member 5332 couples to header mount 5320 using a break-awayconnection such as described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,487,522; 5,671,996;5,615,857; 5,938,321 and 6,087,953, which are herein incorporated byreference herein in their entireties. In addition, upper portion 5338 apreferably includes a second header mount 5334 to which support 5322couples, again, preferably using a break-away connection. Pivot joints5340 a and 5340 b permit support 5332 to fold about a medial portion sothat housing 5330 may be moved to its stowed position. In addition,pivot joints 5340 a, 5340 b, and 5340 c preferably comprise ball jointswhich permit housing 5330 to swivel as well as move up and down and,further, to move side to side to thereby adjust the position of housing5330 to adjust for the driver or passengers of the vehicle.

It can be appreciated that the several embodiments of the video displayassembly of the video mirror systems depicted in at least FIGS. 45-57provide the owner of a vehicle with an option or aftermarket productthat can significantly enhance and expand the functional features of thevehicle. The video display assembly can be installed with ease, butwithout consuming the auto manufacturer's space or the vehicleoccupant's space and, moreover, without unacceptably, and preferablyminimally, interfering with the forward field of view of the driver ofthe vehicle. In addition, many of the video displays described above aremounted in such as manner to direct the weight of the video displayassembly to the vehicle windshield or body rather than to the mirrorhousing to thereby preserve the integrity of the vibrationcharacteristics of the mirror housing and, therefore, preserve thevibration performance of the reflective element. Other advantagesinclude significantly increased space for housing yet even furtherelectronics to achieve greatly expanded vehicle functions. This expandedspace, however, can be conveniently stowed to minimize, if noteliminate, interference with the driver's forward field of view and yetretrieved and moved to a viewing position, preferably a user selectedviewing position, by the grasp of a hand or, optionally, by mechanicalassistance including electro-mechanical assistance.

Also, any of the video display assemblies of the video mirror systemsdepicted in FIGS. 45-57 can comprise an anti-glare element as previouslydescribed, and can include any of the vehicle accessories and functionspreviously described. Further, automatic contrast enhancement and/orautomatic color control and/or automatic display intensity adjustment inline with changes in cabin ambient lighting and controlled by aphotosensor (preferably provided as part of the interior mirror assemblysuch as an electrochromic mirror assembly and/or as part of a vehicleheadlamp controller such as a twilight sentinel) can be included in anyof the video mirror systems depicted in FIGS. 45-57, or in any of thedisplays of the present invention. Preferably, when the display assemblyis mounted common with but separate from the interior mirror assembly(as in FIGS. 45-57), the swivel mechanism provided allows up down aswell as right-left movement to allow either the driver or the passengerto adjust the position of the display screen to meet that person'sindividual requirements, and allows the display be flipped or moved to aregion below the interior mirror assembly when it is notdesired/required for the driver or occupant to view the video screen.Also, the video screen can be adjusted/positioned by the driver oroccupant without disturbing the position of the interior mirrorreflector housed in the interior mirror casing (it is important that thevideo screen be capable of adjustment separate from the adjustment ofthe interior mirror housing, as this allows selection of a desired videoscreen viewing position and/or angle without perturbing the field ofview rearward of the interior mirror reflective element).

Also, optionally and preferably, the video display assemblies of thepresent invention, such as those shown in FIGS. 45-57, may include aseparate non-video information display element, such as analphanumerical information display element (such as a vacuum fluorescentdisplay element or other display element, including multi-pixel and/orreconfigurable and/or scrolling display elements as previouslydescribed). Such a secondary information display can, for example belocated at or along the top, at or along the bottom, or at or along anyside of the video display housing, and adjacent to but separate from thevideo screen. Such a secondary information display could display, forexample, a compass heading, a temperature readout, a GPS locator, astreet name, an INTERNET message, an e-mail message, a tire pressurereadout, a pager message, a telephone number, a vehicle tilt readout, analtitude readout, a vehicle status indication, a radio stationidentifier, a speed readout, a hazard warning message, a vehicle faultmessage, a radar warning, a blind spot detector readout, or theircombination.

For back-up camera display systems that function as a reverse aid, it istypically desirable that the back-up camera/image be selectedautomatically whenever a reverse gear is selected. In addition to this,it can be advantageous in certain driving situations to provide thedriver with a control to allow the driver view the image captured by theback-up camera at the rear of the vehicle even when reversing of thevehicle is not occurring.

Also, incorporating a video camera as part of a vehicular grab handle orrail lamp or coat hook or interior light or as part of similar interiortrim items has several advantages including economic utilization ofthese high-mounted cabin trim items (such trim items have a good“birds-eye” view of the cabin interior, often along with a light sourcethat can provide illumination whenever the camera is active).

Also, a variety of lens and filters can be used for the camera systemsof this invention. Use of color video displays is preferable overmonochrome (B/W) display from a consumer appreciation viewpoint. Manycameras have filters to reduce or eliminate incidence of infraredradiation onto the video camera light responsive detector element (a CCDarray or a CMOS array, for example). For a baby minder camera, it isdesirable, by day and when ambient light intensities are high, that theimage displayed at a video display mirror assembly (or any other displayof the present invention) be rendered in consumer acceptabletrue-to-life color rendition. By night, accuracy of color rendition isnot as important, but ambient light levels can be low (less than 10 luxfor example) and so lack of image brightness/clarity may be an issue.For a baby-minder camera or for the like of a reverse-aid camera, oneoption is to, by night, use a monochrome camera for night time visionthat has its filter removed/has no filter (and so is responsive even atvery low light levels) and to switch to use of a color camera by daythat has an IR filter that transmits visible light but that stronglyattenuates infrared radiation. Switchover from the daytime color camerato the nighttime B/W camera can be manually by user selection orautomatically in response to a photo sensor detecting the onset of duskand so initiating a switch to the B/W camera. Preferably, twovideomicrochip arrays are created on a common wafer segment, one B/W andthe other color, but with both sharing a common lens/package. Morepreferably from a cost and avoidance of complexity viewpoint, a singlecolor camera can be used that at night is illuminated with light sources(preferably LEDs as they are low current consuming). The camera is mostpreferably supplied in a module that is also equipped with the LEDs (orother light sources) required for night time illumination. Preferably,the camera is equipped with a filter that passes some red-region visibleradiation and that passes some near-infrared radiation (but thatstrongly attenuates infrared radiation beyond about 2 microns orthereabouts). The camera is also preferably equipped with at least one(preferably at least two) near infrared-region light emitting diodes(preferably having a peak near-IR emission around 750 nm or thereabouts)and with at least one (preferably at least two) red-region lightemitting diodes, and with the diodes aligned to illuminate the camerafield of view. The transmission characteristic of the filter is matchedboth to the spectral outputs of the light sources used and to thespectral sensitivity of the camera detector so as to maximize bothaccuracy of color rendition by day and camera sensitivity to low lightlevels (and in particular to the spectral outputs of the LEDs provided)by night. For night time use, a camera sensitive to light of about 5 luxor lower is desired; to light of about 2 lux or lower is preferred; tolight of about 1 lux or lower more preferred; and to light of about 0.6lux or lower most preferred. Also, under low ambient light conditionssuch as at dusk/night, the frame rate of the camera can be reducedcompared to the frame rate at higher ambient light levels.

Also, a variety of lenses (both refractive and diffractive) can be usedto define the field of view of the cameras of the present invention. Forreverse-aid type cameras, a wide angle lens is useful to that a view ofthe entire road immediately to the rear of the vehicle, and of width ofthe vehicle, is captured. To reduce any image distortion, optical imagedistortion reduction means and/or software-based image distortionreducing means, as known in the art, can be used. Optionally, twocameras can be used to assist reversing; one equipped with a wide-anglelens and mounted such as at the rear license plate of the vehicle inorder to view a near field of zero to 5 feet or so immediatelyrearwardly, and a second camera, aimed more far field to capture animage of traffic and obstacles further down the path the vehicle isreversing in, can be used. Selection of one or the other of the firstand second camera can be at the driver's discretion, or alternately,engagement of the reverse gear handle by the driver initially selectsthe first, near-field view so that the driver can check it is safe toinitiate a reverse move, and then once the reverse gear is fully engagedand the vehicle is actually moving in reverse, the second, far-fieldview is selected.

Also, the video displays of this present invention may include aheads-up video display viewed by the driver through the frontwindshield. Also, although a display useful for this present inventioncan be located at several positions and still be visible to a driver,preferably, such displays are located in the same forward viewing zonethat the driver uses for safe driving (such as at or adjacent to theinterior mirror assembly as mounted in the vehicle) or, if a sideblind-spot or side view mirror supplemental image display, it isbeneficial that the display associated with a particular side viewmirror be located within the same viewing area the driver uses whendesiring to view the exterior mirror reflective element of that side,and so that the driver can process both the information reflected in theexterior mirror element and in the blind-spot/supplemental visiondisplay without turning his/her head and within the same field of view.Also should a plurality of cameras be provided on the vehicle but onlyone video display, then a control may be provided to allow the drivertoggle between one camera and another. For example, any of thesedisplays, including, for example, display screens 4531, 4631, 4731,4831, 4931, 5031, 5131, 5231, or 5331 may include a screen splitter tocreate two display areas, which is particularly suitable for use inreverse-aid systems. For examples of a suitable screen splitter,reference is made to U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,670,935 and 5,550,677 and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,717,610, and Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642, the disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties.

Also, where appropriate, light to illuminate the field of view of acamera of the present invention (such as a baby-minder camera or areverse-aid camera) can be provided via a fiber-optic cable. Also, ASICmicrochips and common PCBs and circuitry can be used to control multipledisplays/cameras. Also, optionally, a motion detector (such as apyrodetector) can be used to monitor movement in a child seat, and ifmovement is detected, a baby-minder camera system is activated todisplay to the driver what is occurring in the child seat at the rear ofthe vehicle. Also, when locating light sources on a camera module suchas is described above, the light sources (such as LEDs) should belocated, and their light beams should be directed, so as to avoidglaring the camera whose field of view/target area they are intended toilluminate.

When a lens or transparent cover is used for a vehicular camera of thisinvention, and particularly when exteriorly exposed, a lens heater isdesirable to ensure consistent/frost-free performance in cold climates.To ensure that the camera can see through the heater element, atransparent conductor coating (such as of doped tin oxide or of indiumtin oxide) can be used, preferably disposed on an inner-facing surfaceof the lens/cover element. Such transparent heaters are described inU.S. Pat. No. 5,446,576, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. For ease of after-market installation,a camera module equipped with a mounting clip such as a Z-clip such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,662,375, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein, can be used to readily attachthe camera module to an interior portion of the vehicle cabin such as toa vehicle headliner. Preferably, “Hook and Loop”, snaps, Velcro, clipsand similar attachment techniques, as known in the art, can be used toreadily attach the video display/camera within the vehicle, andespecially in after-market installations. Wire communication of thevideo signal may be by co-axial cable or, preferably, by twisted-pairvideo lines to improve signal to noise ratio over a greater transmissiondistance. To reduce wiring complexity, the video output from thevehicular video camera can be wirelessly communicated (such as byBLUETOOTH) to the vehicular video display disposed in the driver'sforward field of view. Voice/data can be transmitted over a common line,and RF modulation and other modulation techniques can be used. Lenscovers are preferably made from plastic, as are lenses in order toreduce weight and cost. Optionally, a reverse-aid camera viewing to therear of the vehicle may be incorporated into a reversing lamp or a taillamp or a license plate holder/light or a rear emblem of the vehicle.For wide field of view camera systems of this invention, softwaremanipulation techniques, as known in the art, can be used to linearizethe image output of the camera.

Also, cameras can be mounted in the interior cabin of the vehicle (suchas at or in the interior rearview mirror assembly or attached to thefront windshield) that face forward of the vehicle in its direction oftravel (and so, for example, view oncoming traffic or oncomingheadlights or rain on the windshield), or can view sideways so as toview side approaching vehicles and pedestrians. For similar purposes, aforward facing and/or a sideways facing video camera can be incorporatedin an exterior side view mirror assembly of the vehicle, or at anyexterior body part, that permits a forward and/or sideways field ofview.

For example, a forward facing camera can be mounted such as at the frontgrille or front fender/bumper or front bonnet/hood area of the vehicle,and with its field of view directed to capture an image of the roadsurface immediately in front of the vehicle. With such as forwardparking-aid camera device (that can utilize wide-angle optics and othertechniques as previously described and referenced with regards toreverse back-up aid cameras), the driver of a vehicle, such as a largeSUV such as the MY2000 Ford Excursion vehicle from Ford Motor Company,can see how close the front fender/bumper is from another vehicle or abarrier or the like when the driver is parking the vehicle. Optionally,a driver actuatable switch can be provided to allow the driver selectdisplay of the view from the forward-facing park-aid camera device.Alternately, and preferably, the image from the forward-facing park-aidcamera device is displayed on the in-vehicle video screen (such as anyof the screens disclosed herein) whenever the vehicle is moving in aforward direction at a velocity less than a predetermined slow velocity(for example, when moving forward at less than about 7 miles/hour orless than about 5 miles per hour or less than about 3 miles per hour),such slow forward speed of travel being potentially indicative of aparking event occurring. Optionally, the forward facing park-aid viewcan be displayed whenever the vehicle is stationary with its engineoperating as a safety measure to prevent inadvertent collision withobstacles or persons upon moving forward.

Also, the forward facing (or optionally the rearward facing) cameras canhave a night vision capability such as is provided by use ofmicro-bolometer array night vision devices, as known in the night visionart, or by near-IR viewing camera. For a forward facing night visioncamera, the camera can optionally be mounted as part of an exteriorsideview mirror assembly of the vehicle, such as in the mirror casingthat houses the exterior mirror reflective element, but with the nightvision camera's field of view directed forward and viewing via anaperture in the mirror casing. Alternately, a forward facing nightvision camera can be mounted in the interior cabin of the vehicle (andso be protected against the external climatic elements and dirt etc.)but with its lens viewing through an aperture in the vehicle windshieldor in the gasket portion of the vehicle windshield. If viewing at orthrough an aperture (devoid of glass) in the vehicle windshield, it isadvantageous to position the lens of the night vision camera at alocation swept by a windshield wiper blade of the windshield of thevehicle (and/or of the windshield washer system) so that the lens of thenight vision camera is kept clear of rain, contaminants, and the like.Similarly, a rear-facing night vision camera, such as a micro-bolometerarray camera, can be positioned with its lens viewing through anaperture in the vehicle rear window or backlite or in the gasket portionof the vehicle rear window/backlite. If viewing at or through anaperture (devoid of glass) in the vehicle rear window/backlite, it isadvantageous to position the lens of the night vision camera at alocation swept by a backlite wiper blade of the rear window/backlite ofthe vehicle (and/or of the backlite washer system) so that the lens ofthe night vision camera is kept clear of rain, contaminants, and thelike. Likewise, if a night vision camera be used, and especially if ofthe micro-bolometer array type, it is preferable to provide a lensheater to keep the lens free of frost or ice, and most preferably, tosustain a substantially constant temperature for the night vision cameraelement, even at the coldest of outside temperatures.

Note that, as described above, it is preferable in some installations toposition the camera so that it is behind, and viewing through, a glasssubstrate in order to provide protection against climatic andenvironmental elements. In such installations, and as described above,it is desirable to use anti-reflection coatings and/or low-index (<1.5RI) polymeric films (that may optionally be supported on a carrier plateor sheet that may be adhesively attached to the exterior-exposed surfaceof the glass panel that the camera is disposed behind) and/or it may bedesirable to use anti-wetting or anti-soiling elements and coatings asdescribed above. Also, when the camera and its associatedlens/filters/circuitry is mounted in an exterior mirror assembly or isattached to the exterior of a rear door or the like, the camera assembly(that preferably is provided as a removable module) should be protectedagainst damage from moisture, dust, car washes and the like byappropriate sealing and component/system encapsulation, as known in theart. Thus, appropriate packaging to ensure weatherability of the cameraand its associated electronics inside the exterior mirror casing orattached to an exterior vehicle body part is provided such as by pottingvulnerable components/systems in conformal weather-resistant polymericcoatings and materials or by encapsulation or by watertight sealing andthe like. Electronic controls and components of any video screen and/orcamera of the present invention can be included as part of, sharecomponents with, and/or be controlled by, circuitry of the vehicleremote from the video screen and/or camera such as by a door modulecontroller, a CAN bus, a LIN bus, and the like. If a reverse-aid camerais used on the vehicle, auxiliary back-up lighting, directed toilluminate the target area to be viewed by the camera, can be provided(preferably using high intensity LEDs such as white light LEDs or redlight LEDs, as described above). When a video camera is mounted as partof an exterior mirror assembly, other electronic features such as asecurity light or a turn signal light (preferably an LED turn signal)can be mounted in the exterior mirror assembly, such as is disclosed inU.S. Pat. Nos. 5,798,575 and 5,796,176, the entire disclosures of whichare hereby incorporated by reference herein. Also, when a camera isplaced behind an exterior mirror reflective element and orientated toview through the exterior mirror element to view approaching and/orovertaking vehicles in a side lane, the mirror element can be atransflective (i.e. transmitting and reflecting) element (such as adichroic mirror or a silicon mirror or a significantlyreflecting/substantially reflecting metal reflector) that is bothreflecting to incident light and transmitting to incident light, asdescribed above. Optionally, a turn signal or other indicators (such asa blind-spot indicator) can be also placed behind the exterior mirrorelement (such as is disclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,014,167 and 5,207,492,the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated by referenceherein).

Also, and as described above, the video display assemblies and cameraassemblies of the present invention are preferably provided as modulesthat are removable from their attachments to the vehicular interior orexterior structure, in order to allow access for service and/or repair.

For reverse-aid and forward-park applications (such as described above),use of a monochrome, black & white camera and/or display is oftenconsumer acceptable, as the important information being conveyed is thatan object or child is not immediately to the rear or front of thevehicle, and so color rendition is not of primary importance orparamount. In this regard, it is preferable to use a single-chip CMOSmonochrome camera such as the OV7410/0V7411 single-chip B&W NTSC cameraavailable from OmniVision Technologies, Inc. of Sunnyvale, Calif. Suchcameras typically have a pixel array size in the 510×492 pixels range,and an image area of about 4.69×3.54 mm². An advantage of using a B&Wmonochrome camera for exterior viewing of the vehicle is that suchcameras work well even at low light levels such as would be likelyexperienced at night, even with illumination aid from the like of a rearbrake light/rear taillight/front headlight and the like. Preferably, thevideo camera used in such applications operates at a minimumillumination (3000K) of less than about 1 lux@f1.2; more preferably ofless than about 0.5 lux@f1.2; most preferably less than about of lessthan about 0.25 lux@f1.2. Power requirement for cameras preferred foruse in this present invention is less than about 500 mW, more preferablyless than about 350 mW, and most preferably less than about 250 mW.Preferably, such cameras support NTSC composite video and/or S-Video,and are SCCB programmable for color saturation, brightness, whitebalance, exposure time and/or gain. Preferably, dynamic range is greaterthan about 60 dB, more preferably greater than about 70 dB, and mostpreferably greater than about 80 dB. Dark current is preferably lessthan about 0.4 nA/sq. cm, more preferably less than about 0.3 nA/sq. cm,and most preferably less than about 0.2 nA/sq. cm. S/N ratio ispreferably greater than about 40 dB, more preferably is greater thanabout 45 dB; and most preferably is greater than about 50 dB. Autoelectronic exposure is preferably within the 1/30- 1/30000 second range,more preferably in the 1/40- 1/40000 second range; and most preferablyin the 1/50- 1/20000 second range. Fixed pattern noise (voltage peak topeak) is preferably less than about 0.1%, more preferably less thanabout 0.05%, and most preferably less than about 0.03%.

Use of color cameras for in-vehicle (and for extra-vehicular)applications presents challenges, and especially for baby-mindercameras. A color microchip array camera typically comprises anindividual blue or a green or a red color filter over each pixel elementof the CMOS multi-pixel element array. Such RGB filters enable thecapture of a color image by the CMOS detector, but necessarily result indecreased low light level sensitivity for a color camera compared to aB&W camera. For certain vehicular camera/display applications, it ishowever important for consumer appreciation that a color camera/displaybe used. This is particularly so for a baby-minder or similar childviewing camera/display application in the vehicle. This is because aparent typically is not appreciative of viewing a child in a rear seatbaby-seat or the like as a B&W image on a display screen. Rather, it isconsumer desirable that the image be displayed in color and that thecolor rendition is at least reasonably life-like. Preferably, a colorcamera whose image is displayed on a color display screen is utilizedfor video applications such as in-cabin viewing such as in a baby-minderor child/baby viewing camera system as described above. Preferably sucha color camera comprises a CMOS multi-pixel array camera such as theOV7910 single chip CMOS color NTSC camera available from OmniVisionTechnologies Inc. of Sunnyvale, Calif. Preferably, such color camerashave the performance characteristics identified above and additionallyprovide RGB and/or YCrCb video signals. Preferably, a color video cameraused in applications such as a rear seat monitoring application such asa baby-minder application operates at a minimum illumination (3000K) ofless than about 5 lux@f1.2, more preferably of less than about 3lux@f1.2, and most preferably less than about of less than about 2lux@f1.2. Also, because such CMOS and equivalent camera detectors areresponsive to near-infrared radiation, such as in the 750 nm-2200 nmrange, and because natural sunlight contains significant radiant energyin the near-IR, it is common to equip a color camera with an IR filterelement than is highly transmitting (an integrated photopic visibletransmission of at least about 75% transmitting, at least about 80%transmitting, more preferred at least about 85% transmitting, and mostpreferred in the 400 nm-700 nm spectral range) in the visible lightregion between about 300 nm and 800 nm (where the eye's photopicresponse is sensitive) and that is lowly transmitting in the 800 nm-1100nm region (at least) with a spectral transmission in the 750 nm-1100 nmof less than about 5% transmission preferred, less than about 3% morepreferred, and less than about 1% most preferred. The spectraltransmission of a typical near-IR filter 5800 suitable to use with acolor camera such as the OV7910 single chip CMOS color NTSC camera isshown in FIG. 58. Also shown are the respective spectral transmissioncurves of typical blue 5810, green 5820 and red 5830 color filters usedon individual pixels of the camera. Such IR filter elements typicallyconsist of a transparent substrate (typically glass) coated with amultilayer stack (typically at least three layers, more preferably atleast five layers, most preferably at least seven layers, and typicallydeposited by vacuum deposition such as by sputtering or evaporation) ofmetal oxides and similar dielectric thin film layers that form a broadband visible band pass filter with a sharp spectral cut off around 700nm or so). Such IR filters typically operate by light interference, andpreferably act as cold mirrors reflecting away near-IR radiation whilebeing highly transmitting to visible light. An IR filter elementsuitable to use with cameras in applications of the present invention isavailable from Maier Photonics, Inc of Manchester Center, VT under thepart designation “p/n SP730/14s”. This has a 50% cut-off at +/−10 nm atnormal incidence, and comprises a 1 mm thick soda-lime glass substrate.Alternately, a WBHM IR filter element available from OCLI of Santa Rosa,Calif. can be used, and having an average transmission equal to orgreater than 80% from 400 nm to 700 nm and an average transmission lessthan or equal to 2% from 750 nm to 1100 nm. Also, an IR filter elementfrom Evaporated Coatings, Inc of Willow Grove, Pa. comprising a CorningMicro-Sheet Glass 0211 coated with ECI #1010 can be used. This has anaverage transmission equal to or greater than 85%@400 nm-700 nm; apartial transmission of about 80% at 740 nm (+/−10 nm); a partialtransmission of about 50% at 750 nm (+/−10 nm); and an averagetransmission of less than about 3%@780 nm-1100 nm. Such IR filterelements are abrasion resistant per MIL-C-675A, which is herebyincorporated by reference herein. Such IR filters are disposed in thecamera assembly in front of the CMOS or CCD video detector array (eitherin front of the camera lens or between the camera lens and the videodetector array).

Although such IR filters are useful, and on occasions necessary, to usewith color cameras, such as color baby-minder cameras of the presentinvention, difficulties may be encountered at night when the like ofnear-IR LEDs are used for in-cabin illumination of the scene beingimaged by the in-cabin camera, as described above. An exemplary near-IRemitting LED to use in conjunction with the camera systems of thepresent invention is available from Lumex Inc. of Palatine, Ill. underthe tradename OED-EL-1L2. This is a T-5 mm, leaded, clear epoxy—60degree LED that emits essentially no visible light but that has a peakspectral emission of about 940 nm. For a baby camera of the presentinvention installed in a roof region of the interior cabin of a typicalpassenger vehicle (such as a sedan, station wagon, minivan, SUV and thelike), it has been found that about four such LEDs provide sufficientlocal illumination, when joined such as in a cluster, to function as anilluminator for a baby-minder camera. Forward current through such IRLEDs is typically less than about 150 mA, more preferably less thanabout 100 mA, and most preferably is less than about 80 mA. Powerconsumption by such IR LEDs is typically less than about 350 mW, morepreferably less than about 250 mW, and most preferably is less thanabout 150 mW. Such LEDs can be powered by duty cycling such as by pulsewidth modulation or by direct current drive (typically via a loaddropping resistor in series with the vehicle ignition supply). Othernear-IR emitting LEDs can be used such as ones with a peak lightemission intensity at about 730 nm, at about 780 nm at about 875 nm, andat about 880 nm. Spectral output for such near-IR LEDs is preferably inthe 5 mW/sr to about 35 mW/sr range. Such near-IR light emitting diodesemit little or no visible light. This can be advantageous forbaby-minder and similar applications (such as in a home crib) when adriver (or parent) wants to view an image of a sleeping baby or childbut does not want to turn on a visible light that might wake the baby orchild up. Thus, optionally, the light used in the cabin to illuminate asleeping infant that is being imaged by an in-cabin baby-minder orbaby-viewing camera can be substantially or wholly non-visible radiationsuch as is emitted in the near-IR region (beyond the eye's sensitivityeven in the scotopic region) by emitting sources such as the near-IRLEDs described above. Optionally, additional visible light sources (suchas visible light emitting LEDs or an incandescent source or a neonsource or the like) can illuminate on occasions at night when the driverwants to have visible light illumination of a baby or child in a rearcar seat. However, a problem can arise when a color camera equipped withan IR element as described above is used in conjunction with near-IRlight emitting sources such as those described above. The near-IR cutoff of the camera filter also severely attenuates and/or blocks thenear-IR radiation emitted by the near-IR LEDs (or similar near-IRemitting sources) such that nighttime illumination of a baby in a carseat may be inadequate to be useful/valued by the driver. In suchcircumstance, the video display/in-cabin camera system 5900 and 5900′ ofFIGS. 59 A-B can be used. In FIG. 59A, during daylight hours, colorcamera 5920 (that attaches to vehicle roof portion 5931) images child5960 seated on rear seat 5950 of a vehicle (not shown). Near-IR LEDs5930,5932 (that optionally, being low power, long-lifetime LEDs, arecontinually powered whenever the vehicle ignition is on) bath child 5960in near-IR radiation that reflects off the child to be captured by lens5924 of camera 5920. An IR filter element 5940 is disposed in front ofcamera lens 5924 so that the color pixels of the detector of camera 5920are not washed out by the near-IR content of daylight. The image outputof camera 5920 is displayed at video display 5910 for viewing by thedriver (or another occupant) of the vehicle. Preferably, video display5910 comprises a component of a video display mirror system as describedabove. However, at nighttime when ambient lighting in the vehicle cabinis low (below about 110 lux preferably, below about 80 lux morepreferably, and below about 50 lux most preferably), and as seen in FIG.59B, IR filter element 5940′ is moved out of the field of view of lens5924′ so that the detector of camera 5920′ can view the IR radiationfrom IR LEDs 5930′,5932′ reflected off child 5960′ (in seat 5950′)unattenuated so that the output image in video display 5910′ isdiscernable by the driver. Various means can be used to remove the IRfilter element from the camera field of view during nighttime.Mechanical means can be used such as by mounting IR filter element 5940′on a slider element that the driver can move from a “day” setting wherethe IR filter is in front of the camera lens to a “night” setting wherethe IR filter is not in front of the camera lens. To obviate the driverhaving to reach to a camera mounted in the cabin roof area 5931′ of thevehicle in order to move the lens out of the camera line of sight duringdusk/nighttime hours, an electromechanical mechanism, preferablyoperated by a photo sensor (such as a photo diode or a photo transistoror a photo resistor) or responsive to an output of the camera itself,can automatically move the IR filter element, by electrical command, outof the line of sight of the color camera when cabin ambient lightingconditions are low, such as by night when the daylight that otherwisewashes out the color rendition by the camera is absent. Optionally,electro-optic means can be used to prevent color wash out by day whilemaximizing low light sensitivity by night. For example, anelectrochromic IR filter can be used that includes, preferably, atungsten oxide electrochromic layer that changes from beingsubstantially visible light transmitting and substantially near-IRtransmitting when uncharged (bleached) and transforms to beingsignificantly near-IR absorbing/reflecting as well as beingsignificantly visible light attenuating when cathodically charged. Thedegree of near-IR attenuation and visible light attenuation isproportional to the negative voltage applied to the electrochromictungsten oxide metal oxide layer, with applied voltages in the 0.1 V toabout 2.5 V range typical. The higher the cathodic voltage applied, themore the near-IR/visible light attenuation. In a video display/in-cabincamera system including an electro-optic IR filter element withelectrically variable near-IR attenuation, an electrochromic filterelement, that includes a tungsten oxide coating (for example, such asdescribed in U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/135,657, and U.S.utility application Ser. No. 09/493,522, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,426,492,which are incorporated by reference herein in their entireties) can bedisposed in front of the CMOS camera detector array. By day, this ECfilter is powered such as by applying 0.1 V to about 1.5 V or so to theEC window filter device (the tungsten oxide being powered cathodically)such that near-IR radiation in incident daylight is significantlyattenuated. A photo detector such as a photo diode or a photo transistoror a photo resistor (or camera itself) can detect ambient lightconditions in the vehicle cabin, and adjust the voltage applied to theEC filter accordingly so that the near-IR content of daylight incidenton the camera is strongly attenuated without over-attenuation of visibledaylight. By night, the voltage applied to the EC filter element isremoved so that it is in its bleached/uncolored state in which it ishighly visible and near-IR light transmitting. Also, other automatic IRfilter elements can be used that can exhibit variable near-IR radiationattenuation including thermochromic IR filters that comprise a vanadiumoxide thermochromic layer that changes near-IR transmissivity astemperature rises.

As an alternate to, or in addition to, use of non-visible light emittingsources to illuminate objects/areas to be viewed by a vehicular camera,visible light sources can be used, as described above. In this regard,an interior light of the vehicle cabin, such as a dome light or a railor reading lamp, may illuminate whenever a rear cabin monitoring camerais activated at night. However, optionally and preferably in order notto waken or disturb a sleeping infant or the like on a rear seat (andalso to avoid distraction of/glaring of the driver), the interior lightmay illuminate at a fraction of its normal light intensity when thebaby-minder camera or the like is actuated to view a child located at alocal area in the vehicle cabin, such as in a rear-seat baby-seat. Forexample, when the baby-minder camera is turned on, the dome light mayilluminate at less than, for example, about 50% of its normal intensityor at less than about 30% of its normal intensity or at less than about15% of its normal intensity, dependent on the threshold light intensitydesired to allow adequate, minimal viewing of a child in a child-seatwithout waking or perturbing that child with an overly bright light. Inthis regard, the interior light of the vehicle (such as a dome lamp or arail lamp or a side reading lamp) can be powered by a duty cycling powersupply, such as via pulse width modulation, in order to reduce power tothe light source and hence reduce its light intensity output at nightwhen the baby minder camera is viewing a sleeping child, for example, ina rear baby seat in the vehicle cabin. Also, theater lighting in thevehicle can be utilized in conjunction with the baby minder camerasystem to provide a low level of visible illumination at night whenviewing of a baby or the like is desired without glaring or otherwiseperturbing that baby. Since by day, such low light levels from interiorlights (and especially from LED interior lighting) are not visible givento the high ambient light level in the interior cabin, such interiorlight dimming in conjunction with operation of an interiorcabin-monitoring camera can operate by day and by night. Also, shouldthe interior light be provided by a cluster of non-incandescent lightsources such as a plurality of visible light emitting LEDs, only some ofthe cluster may be selected to illuminate when the interiorcabin-monitoring camera operates (or some or all can operate at reducedpower). In this regard, vehicle equipped with a vehicle bus system suchas a CAN or LIN bus can control the camera system and the associatedillumination source(s) via a vehicle bus, as previously described.

As indicated above, interconnection to and communication with thecomponents of the video mirror systems of the present invention can bevia a variety of means and protocols including J2284, J1850, UART,optical fiber, hard wired, wireless RF, wireless IR and wirelessmicrowave. Also, the image displayed on the display screen canadapt/change depending on the driving task condition. For example, ifreverse gear is selected, and as previously described, the display canautomatically change to display the image immediately behind thevehicle. If this is the current view at the time the reverse gear isinitially engaged, no change is necessary. Also, reverse gear selectioncan turn on any additional illumination sources (IR, visible etc.). Forvehicle equipped with blind spot cameras as well as a reversing camera,a split screen display can be used to show the area immediately behindthe vehicle and to the vehicle sides. When reverse gear is disengaged,the additional illumination can automatically turn off, and the videoscreen can revert to its pre-reversing display image. When reversing,additional warning inputs can be displayed or audibly communicated tothe driver such as a warning of objects detected, peripheral motion, thedirection in which an object detected lies, and the distance to anobject (determined by radar, ultrasonic, infrared, and/or visionanalysis). Such objects/data detected can be displayed as icons and/oran alphanumerical display on a video image of the rearward scene and/oron a graphic representation of the rearward view such as is shown inFIG. 60.

When a forward gear is selected, and especially when slowly moving, thecurrent camera view on the display screen can be selected to be the areaimmediately forward of the vehicle or down field of the forwarddirection of motion. Optionally, the focal distance of the camera can beselected based on the speed of motion of the vehicle. Also, a nightvision capability can automatically be selected as ambient lightinglevels fall (such as indicated by a photo sensor or by an on-vehiclecamera). A vehicle memory system or a vehicle occupant classificationsystem (such as a fingerprint reader) can automatically move the displayangle, camera view/focus to suit the predetermined (or learnt)preference/need of the driver/occupant detected. For vehicles equippedwith side-lane monitoring cameras, selection of the left or right turnsignal indicator can optionally automatically change camera selectionand display view to the respective side to which the vehicle issignaling an intent to turn. When the turn signal indicator deactivates,the camera selection and display automatically reverts to its pre-turnevent condition. Also, an exterior viewing camera, such as a forwardviewing vehicular camera, can optionally distinguish vehicle height forvehicle compatibility in a vehicle to vehicle collision. For example, ifa forward facing camera detects that impact of the forward-facing cameraequipped-vehicle with the rear of a vehicle in front (a “tailgate”collision) is imminent, the camera-equipped vehicle can determine theheight of the vehicle in front (point where door transitions from steelto glass, or another point) by identifying a feature (such as by imagerecognition or the like). In response, the camera-equipped vehicleadjusts its height (or the height of its bumper or deploys ananti-collision air bag) to reduce impact damage/injuries with thevehicle in front. For example, the camera-equipped vehicle could adjustincrease or decrease the height of its front (or rear) bumper (orinflate a bumper air-bag or air-cushion) to be compatible with abumper/structure of the vehicle in front (or approaching from the rear).

As described above, it is desirable in many circumstance to utilize avideo mirror system where the interior mirror assembly and the videodisplay assembly are commonly attached, but where the video display ispositionable independent of the positioning of the interior mirrorhousing (that include the interior mirror reflective element). A varietyof means can be utilized to attach the video display assembly to thevehicle such as to the vehicle windshield. As described above, a varietyof mirror mounts can be used, or other removable mounting means such asa suction cup or Velcro attachment can be contemplated. The videodisplay can be installed in a variety of cabin locations such aspreviously described, and in locations such as the instrumentpanel/dashboard, a flip-down display from a header region or abottom/floor console. The display may be recessed in a fixed holder, andwith the display screen rotatable.

As described above, it is preferable that the driver or another occupantof the vehicle be able to adjust the position and viewing angle of thedisplay screen of the video display assembly to suit his/herneeds/preference. Thus a variety of adjustment mechanisms can be used toachieve this. For example, the video display assembly can include aT-ball joint with a spring clip retention. The spring can be on eitherend of the T-bar or the spring can be over the overall length. Thespring can be on one end of the T-bar. The video display adjustmentmechanism can include a wave spring, a compressing spring, a lockwasher, and/or a multi-detent spring. The adjustment means of the videodisplay assembly may include a universal joint, a ball joint undercompression and/or a ball/socket joint. Other adjustment mechanismsuseful for this invention include a goose-neck mechanism, a telescopingmechanism, a rotating pivot point mechanism, a geared mechanism, amotorized mechanism, a double ball joint mechanism, a plastic/frictionmechanism, and a memory mechanism.

FIG. 61 shows a video mirror system 6100 comprising an interior mirrorassembly 6135 which includes a mirror casing 6140 and which is attachedby mirror mount 6120 to vehicle windshield 6110. Pod 6190 removablyattaches to mirror mount 6120 via pod attachment element 6193. Pod 6190includes a video controller board 6194 and a video display driver board6192. Pod 6190 connects to video display housing 6170 via cable 6196which carries video and electronic signals to the video screen housed invideo display housing 6170. Video display attachment element 6160removably attaches to ball joint 6150 of mirror support arm 6130. Videodisplay housing 6170 is movable about joint 6162 to move in thedirection indicated by arrow 6171 to stow under mirror assembly 6135when view of the screen in video display housing 6170 is not desired.Video display housing 6170 is also movable about joint 6162 to move inthe direction indicated by arrow 6173 to allow rotation of video displayhousing 6170 in order to adjust the viewing angle of the video screen inhousing 6170. Buttons 6180 allow user-access to the control functionsand features of the video mirror system 6100. By placing the electronicboards in pod 6190, weight in housing 6170 is beneficially decreased,leading to reduced effect on mirror reflective element image vibration.

FIG. 62 shows a video mirror system 6200 including a video displayhousing 6270 that is attached via pivot joint 6262 to video pod 6290that in turn attaches (removably) via video attachment element 6293 tothe lower ball-joint 6251 of mirror support arm 6230 of interior mirrorassembly 6235. Upper ball joint 6253 attaches to housing 6240 ofassembly 6235. As shown by arrow 6271, video display housing 6270 canmove about pivot joint 6262 to stow below video pod 6290 (as in 6270′).Video pod 6290 contains various electronic boards 6291, 6292, that caninclude a variety of electronic features and accessories, as describedabove. Buttons 6280 allow user-access to the control functions andfeatures of the video mirror system 6200.

FIG. 63 shows a video mirror system 6300 and a video display assembly6370 that includes a video screen 6372 in video display housing 6374 anduser-access controls 6380. Video display housing 6374 rotates andarticulates about video housing support arm 6390. When not desired forviewing, video display housing 6374 can move to stow to the rear andbelow bezel 6338 of interior rearview mirror assembly 6335.

FIGS. 64-66 show various views of a video mirror system of the presentinvention. As best seen in FIG. 64B, a detachable video displayattachment mount is provided that snaps onto the lower ball-joint/mirrormount of the interior mirror assembly (as best seen in FIG. 65A). Anexample of a suitable video attachment mount can be found in U.S. Pat.No. 5,576,687, the entire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated byreference herein. A preferred attachment mount to attach the videodisplay assembly to the interior mirror assembly includes a coupler forengaging the mirror mount that supports the interior mirror assembly ona windshield mirror button. The coupler of the mount of the videodisplay assembly includes a tab at one end for catching the interiormirror mount and a clip at another end to engage a portion of theinterior mirror assembly. The coupler of the video display assembly alsopreferably includes a shafted fastener received in the interior mirrormount and/or a sliding fastener engaging a cooperating element of themirror mount and/or a shafted fastener received in the mirror mount.Preferably, the coupler of the video display assembly includes anattachment member for snapping onto the interior mirror assembly(preferably at the interior mirror mount). As can best be seen in FIGS.65A and 65B, the video display housing can rotate about a T-joint tostow generally horizontally behind the interior mirror housing whenvideo screen viewing is not desired (FIG. 65A), but can flip down to agenerally vertical plane when desired to be viewed (see FIG. 65B). Also,as seen in FIGS. 66A and 66B, the video display housing can rotate aboutits attachment joint to allow the viewing angle of the video screen tobe positioned to suit the user's needs.

A further embodiment of a video mirror system 6700 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 67. Video mirror system 6700 includes aninterior rearview mirror assembly 6710 and a video display assembly6712, which incorporates movable support 6732 that includes support arm6738 and pivot joints 6732 a, 6732 b. Similar to the previousembodiments, interior rearview mirror assembly 6710 includes a mirrorhousing 6714 and a reflective element 6716 (preferably, anelectrochromic reflective element) and, further, a mirror housingsupport 6729. Mirror housing support 6729 includes a mirror mount 6726and a support arm 6724. Though illustrated with a dual ball mountarrangement, support 6729 may include a fixed support arm or may includea single ball mount arrangement to permit either pivoting of support arm6724 about mirror mount 6726 or pivoting between support arm 6724 andhousing 6714, as will be understood by those skilled in the art.

Video display support 6732 comprises an elongate support arm 6738 withan upper fixed portion 6751 which is adapted to detachably mount towindshield mirror mounting button 6720 which in turn is mounted towindshield 6718, for example by an adhesive. Upper fixed portion 6751includes a mirror mounting button 6736, on which mirror mount 6726 ofmirror assembly 6710 is detachably mounted to provide a detachable, andpreferably break-away connection, for interior rearview mirror assembly6710. The lower portion of support arm 6738 includes a pivot joint 6732b to video screen housing 6730 of video display assembly 6712. Pivotjoints 6732 a, 6732 b allow a viewer of video screen 6731 to adjust itsviewing angle to suit the need/preference of the driver or front-seatpassenger of the vehicle. Similar to the previous embodiments, videodisplay assembly 6712 includes a video screen 6731 (that, preferably, iscoated on its outer surface with an antiglare means, such as describedabove, and most preferably an interference-stack anti-glaremulti-coating stack of thin films, typically metal oxides, forming ananti-glare multilayer stack), which is housed in a housing 6730, and acarrier 6742, such as a printed circuit which supports electronics forvarious functions preferably within assembly 6712, including videoscreen 6731. Further, video display assembly 6712 preferably includes atleast one control button 6744 which may be used, for example, to actuatescreen 6731 (or change a contrast/color tint, display intensity, or thelike) and/or other functions provided by the circuit board on carrier6742.

Upper fixed portion 6751 of video display assembly 6712 includes ahousing portion that includes a variety of vehicle accessories andcontrols. For example, a GPS navigational system 6754, including a GPSantenna, is included in housing 6751. Also included is another accessory6756 that may, for example, comprise a trainable garage door opener suchas the HomeLink® GDO system available from JCI of Holland, Mich. and/ormay comprise a cellular phone system including a completetelecommunication system/antenna/transceiver and/or a telematic systemincluding antenna and transceiver and/or an automatic toll booth/remotetransaction transceiver system and/or a compass direction systemincluding a compass sensor, such as is described above and/or any of thevehicle accessories and functions described above. Upper fixed portion6751 also includes a microphone system 6750 (preferably amulti-microphone array including a digital sound processing systemincluded in a housing 6751) suitable for use in voice commandinteractions, cellular phone interactions, hands-free phone operations,telematic communications and the like, and a loudspeaker 6752 suitableto, for example, audibly convey to the driver navigationaldirections/instructions from the GPS system 6754 and/or audibly read oute-mail messages received through an INTERNET connection via a telematiclink, and the like, or can function as a component of a speaker phonesystem included in video display assembly 6712. A rain sensor 6758 isincluded in or at upper portion 6751. Cell phone and other function useraccess control interfaces/buttons 6746 are included in the forwardfacing upper portion of video display housing 6730. The lower portion ofvideo display housing 6730 includes an information display 6748 thatincludes a non-video information display element 6749 that is visible tothe driver and/or occupant of the vehicle. Information display element6749 can be any one of the display types described previously (such as avacuum fluorescent display, an LED display, an electroluminescentdisplay, or a liquid crystal display), and preferably is a multi-pixeldisplay capable of being reconfigured, and capable of displayingscrolling text including alphanumerical text in various fonts andlanguages. For example, display element 6749 can display, in response toGPS system 6754, the name of the next street or junction or highwayentry/exit ramp being approached by the vehicle equipped with videomirror system 6700.

As seen in video mirror system 6700, a stand-alone GPS and/or cellularphone and/or telematic system, including voice operated and voicerecognizing systems, can be provided in an assembly that attaches localto or at the attachment point in the vehicle where the interior mirrorattaches (such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,930,742, the entiredisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) and in amanner that use can be made of the microphones and/or control buttonsand/or other accessories in the video display assembly without effectingthe position of the mirror housing of the interior mirror assembly (andthereby the field of view of its reflective element). Thus, for example,a driver can dial a phone number or actuate a telematic control buttonin video mirror system 6700 without effecting the position of the mirrorhousing or otherwise perturbing the interior mirror assembly (theinterior mirror assembly being separate from and independent of thevideo display assembly). Also, the weight of the accessories, controls,microphones, antennae, circuitry, and the like in the video displayassembly is supported by the windshield mounting button/header mountingplate (or alternately, by a separate windshield attachment member/headerattachment member as previously described) and not by the interiormirror assembly so that vibration of the mirror reflective element isunaffected. Also, by mounting the video display assembly as in videomirror system 6700, provision of a stand-alone telematic system and/ortelecommunication/phone system (including a video phone system) and/or aGPS navigational system as an aftermarket/dealership option/OEM optionitem is facilitated. Note that variants of video mirror system 6700 arepossible, including some where the video display and its support aredispensed with and display element 6749 is located at fixed portion 6751(such as part of a lobe or gondola visible below the interior mirrorassembly) and is used to convey information to the driver, inconjunction with audio instructions played via loudspeaker 6752 (oralternately, played over another loudspeaker in the vehicle cabin).

Also, the video display in any of the video mirror applications of thepresent invention, such as video mirror system 6700, can function as thedisplay screen for a portable computer device, a portable cellularphone, and/or a portable personal digital assistant device (PDA) such asa PalmPilot® or other personal digital assistant. When serving as thedisplay screen of a PDA, the PDA/in-vehicle display screen canoptionally operate in combination with a cellular phone or as astand-alone device. Also, any of the video screens of the presentinvention, such as video screen 6731, can serve multiple purposes suchas a video screen for an on-board vehicular camera and/or as the videomonitor screen for a portable computing/PDA/cellularphone/telecommunication device. The video display system of the presentinvention can itself function as an in-vehicle PDA and/or cellularphone, in addition to other functions as described above. Portabledevices such as PDAs, cellular phones, and palm/notebook/laptop portablecomputers can connect to/communicate with the video mirror systems ofthe present invention by direct wired connection/docking or by wirelesscommunication such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/561,023, filed Apr. 28, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,553,308; U.S.Provisional Pat. Application Ser. No. 60/131,593, filed Apr. 29, 1999,and U.S. Provisional Pat. Application Ser. No. 60/199,676, filed Apr.21, 2000, the entire disclosures of which are hereby incorporated byreference herein. Preferably, the video mirror systems of the presentinvention, such as video mirror system 6700, is equipped with a mobiledevice communication port (such as an IrDA-port) that transmits/receivesdata via wireless infrared communication. For example, any of the videodisplay housings and/or any of the video attachment members/mountsand/or any of the interior mirror assemblies can be equipped with amobile device communication port (such as an IrDA-port) thattransmits/receives data via wireless infrared communication. Also, anyof the video display assemblies, including any of the video screens orvideo display housings can be adapted to receive data input by touchsuch as by a human finger or a stylus such as via a touch screen, andsuch as is disclosed in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No.60/192,721, filed Mar. 27, 2000, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein. The flip down/positionablevideo display assemblies of the present invention are preferredlocations for a wireless telecommunications receiver, transmitter orcommunications node, including such used as part of a GPS navigationalsystem. Also, the front surface of the stowed flip-down video displayassemblies of the present invention can optionally be used as aninformation display location itself or as a location for a transmitteror receiver for the like of a GPS system, an interactive system, and atelematic system. Also, since it is perceived unsafe, and in somejurisdictions illegal, to transport children in a 5th wheel towedvehicle unless there is aural communication with the towing vehicle,placement of microphones and cameras in the towed vehicle, incombination with the video mirror systems and other displays of thepresent invention, can allow full communication with any towed vehicle,both visual and oral/aural, an aspect of the present invention that isof importance for the RV industry in particular.

A further embodiment of a video mirror system 6800 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 68. Video mirror system 6800 includes aninterior rearview mirror assembly 6810. Similar to the previousembodiments, interior rearview mirror assembly 6810 includes a mirrorhousing 6814 and a reflective element 6816 (preferably, anelectrochromic reflective element) and, further, a mirror housingsupport 6824. Mirror housing 6814 further includes a video screen 6831and control circuitry 6846. The mirror mount 6826 mounts to a mirrormounting member or button 6836, which is mounted to windshield 6818.Mirror button 6836 is part of the attachment portion 6851 of accessoryassembly 6812. Attachment portion 6851 of accessory assembly 6812 isadapted to detachably mount to windshield mirror mounting button 6820.As described above, attachment portion 6851 includes a mirror mountingbutton 6836, on which mirror mount 6826 of mirror assembly 6810 isdetachably mounted to provide a detachable, and preferably break-awayconnection, for interior rearview mirror assembly 6810. Note thatwindshield mounting button 6820 is generally co-axial with mirrormounting button 6836 of attachment member or portion 6851. Accessoryassembly 6812 preferably includes at least one control button 6876 whichmay be used, for example, to actuate screen 6831 (or change acontrast/color tint, display intensity, or the like) and/or otherfunctions provided by circuit board 6846.

Attachment portion 6851 of accessory assembly 6812 includes a housingportion 6859 that includes a variety of vehicle accessories andcontrols. For example, a GPS navigational system 6854, preferablyincluding a GPS antenna, is included in housing 6859. Also included areother accessories 6856, 6855, 6858 that may, for example, comprise atrainable garage door opener such as the HomeLink® GDO system availablefrom JCI of Holland, Mich. and/or may comprise a cellular phone systemincluding the complete telecommunication system/antenna/transceiverand/or a telematic system including antenna and transceiver and/or anautomatic toll booth/remote transaction transceiver system and/or acompass direction system including a compass sensor, such as isdescribed above and/or any of the vehicle accessories and functionsdescribed above. Accessory housing 6859 also includes a microphonesystem 6850 (preferably a multi-microphone array including a digitalsound processing system included in housing 6859) suitable for use invoice command interactions, cellular phone interactions, telematiccommunications and the like, and a loudspeaker 6852 suitable to, forexample, audibly convey to the driver navigationaldirections/instructions from the GPS system 6854 and/or audibly read oute-mail messages received through an INTERNET connection via a telematiclink, and the like. A rain sensor 6858 is included in or at attachmentportion 6851. Cell phone and other function user access controlinterfaces/buttons 6874, 6876 are included in the forward facing(towards the driver/interior cabin occupant) of accessory housing 6859.Accessory housing 6859 includes an information display 6848 thatincludes a non-video information display element 6849 that is visible tothe driver and/or occupant of the vehicle. Information display element6849 can be any one of the display types described previously (such as avacuum fluorescent display, an LED display, an electroluminescentdisplay, or a liquid crystal display), and preferably is a multi-pixeldisplay capable of being reconfigured, and capable of displayingscrolling text including alphanumerical text in various fonts andlanguages. For example, display element 6849 can display, in response toGPS system 6854, the name of the next street or junction or highwayentry/exit ramp being approached by the vehicle equipped with videomirror system 6800. Accessory module 6812 is also equipped with a videocamera 6843 for viewing a portion of the interior cabin (such as, forexample, viewing a front passenger seat so as to function as a seatoccupancy detector) and/or for viewing an occupant of the vehicle (suchas a driver's head/face portion). Optionally, near-IR and/or visiblelight sources, as described previously, can be positioned at housing6859 so as to illuminate the target area being viewed by camera 6843. Aforward facing camera 6821 is also provided at or within accessorymodule 6812 with a field of view through the front windshield (forautomatic headlamp control and/or collision avoidance and/or windshieldfogging detection and/or rain sensing and/or smart headlamp control).User actuatable controls 6875 are provided on the front portion ofaccessory housing 6859 to allow user actuation of a variety of vehiclefunctions and/or accessories (such as actuation of or color/tint controlof video screen 6831). A photo sensor 6811 (such as a photo diode, or aphoto transistor, or a photo resistor) is provided to allow measurementof cabin ambient lighting for a variety of purposes, such as automaticintensity control of the video image displayed on video screen 6831. Aninstrument panel/floor console/gear shift console illuminating lightsource 6801 (preferably an LED) is provided at the lower surface ofaccessory housing 6859.

As seen in video mirror system 6800, a stand-alone GPS and/or cellularphone and/or telematic system, including voice operated and voicerecognizing systems, as well as other vehicle functions such as akeyless entry receiver, a map/reading light, an intrusion detector, aseat occupancy detector, a trainable/universal garage door opener, arain sensor, a compass sensor, a headlamp controller, a twilightsentinel, a tool transceiver, a remote transaction transceiver, awindshield fogging detector as well as any other vehicle accessorydescribed above, can be provided in a module assembly that attacheslocal to or at the attachment point in the vehicle where the interiormirror attaches (such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 4,930,742, theentire disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein)and in a manner that use can be made of the microphones and/or controlbuttons and/or other accessories in the accessory assembly withouteffecting the position of the mirror housing of the interior mirrorassembly (and thereby the field of view of its reflective element), andpreferably in a manner and at a location such that at least a portion,and preferably at least a substantial portion, of the accessory moduleis disposed behind the rear of the interior mirror housing of theinterior rearview mirror assembly (and so in a region that minimizesobstruction of the driver's forward field of view through the frontwindshield). Thus, for example, a driver can dial a phone number oractuate a telematic control button in video mirror system 6800 withouteffecting the position of the mirror housing or otherwise perturbing theinterior mirror assembly (the interior mirror assembly being separatefrom and independent of the accessory assembly). Also, the weight of theaccessories, controls, microphones, antennae, circuitry, and the like inthe accessory assembly is supported by the windshield mountingbutton/header mounting plate (or alternately, by a separate windshieldattachment member/header attachment member as previously described) andnot by the interior mirror assembly so that vibration of the mirrorreflective element is unaffected. Also, by mounting the accessoryassembly as in video mirror system 6800, provision of a stand-alonetelematic system and/or telecommunication/phone system (including avideo phone system) and/or a GPS navigational system as anaftermarket/dealership option/OEM option item is facilitated. Note thatvariants of video mirror system 6800 are possible, such as where theaccessory assembly is provided with pivot joints, as previouslydescribed, in order to allow positioning at a position and/or viewingangle desirable to a driver and/or occupant. Thus, for example,accessory housing 6859 of accessory module assembly 6812 can be movableabout accessory module attachment portion 6851 so that the position ofaccessory module housing 6859 can be adjusted (about at least one axis,preferably about at least two axes, more preferably, about at leastthree axes) to position the user access/control buttons, informationdisplay and the like at the accessory housing 6859 at a location and/ora viewing angle desired/preferred by an occupant of the vehicle such asa driver or front seat passenger. Also, optionally and preferably,accessory module housing 6859 can be stowed as previously described whenviewing of its information display and/or access to its control inputsis not desired. Thus, accessory module 6812 can comprise a flip-downaccessory housing 6859 that is articulatable left to right and up anddown. Also, when a cellular phone and/or a telematic device and/or a PDAand/or personal computing device is docked in or included in theaccessory assembly 6812, accessory assembly 6812 can include aloudspeaker (as described above) and associated sound amplificationcircuitry so that accessory module assembly 6812 functions as astand-alone in-vehicle sound system, thus providing, for example, aspeaker-phone function. Also, a passenger side inflatable restraintindicator display that indicates the state of activation/deactivation ofan air bag or similar inflatable occupant restraint in the vehicle cabin(such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,087,953, the entire disclosureof which is hereby incorporated by reference herein) can be included inaccessory assembly 6812 such as at information display 6848. Also,accessory assembly 6812 can include various accessories and devices suchas a seat occupancy detector (visible detector, ultrasound detector,radar detector, microwave detector, thermal detector (including apyrodetector), infrared detector) and/or a keyless entry receiver and/ora cabin occupancy detector (such as a pyrodetector or an infrareddetector or an ultrasound detector or an infrared detector) and/or a maplight/reading light.

A further embodiment of a video mirror system 6800′ of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 68A. Video mirror system 6800′ is similar infeatures and content to video mirror system 6800 of FIG. 68, with likenumerals (such as 6810′; 6811′; 6814′; 6816′; 6818′; 6821′; 6824′;6826′; 6827′; 6831′; 6836′; 6843′; 6846′; 6848′; 6850′; 6852′; 6854′;6855′; 6856′; and 6858′) corresponding to the structures and/or devicesdescribed in reference to the like numerals in the previous embodiments(such as 6810; 6811; 6814; 6816; 6818; 6821; 6824; 6826; 6827; 6831;6836; 6843; 6846; 6848; 6850; 6852; 6854; 6855; 6856; and 6858,respectively, in system 6800) and comprises an interior mirror assembly6810′ and an accessory module assembly 6812′. Accessory moduleattachment portion 6851′ of accessory module assembly 6812′ attaches towindshield-mounted attachment member 6820′ via a break-away mount thatdetaches when an impact at above a pre-determined impact force isexperienced. Preferably, attachment member 6820′ consists of a mirrormounting button such as is commonly found on the inner surface ofvehicular windshields of MY00 vehicles, such as from Ford Motor Company,Toyota Motors, BMW, General Motors Corporation, Volkswagen, Mazda,Daimler Chrysler Corporation, Nissan, Renault, Volvo, Audi and the like.Also, preferably, the receiving portion of accessory module attachmentportion 6851′ that attaches to windshield-mounted attachment member6820′ is the same as would be found on the mounting portion of aninterior rearview mirror assembly that would attach to the windshieldmounting button on the windshield of that particular vehicle model. Thishas several advantages. By making the mounting-to-the-windshield-buttonportion of accessory module assembly 6812′ the same as that of theinterior rearview mirror assembly that would normally attach to thatparticular type/construction of windshield-mounted mirror button, anautomaker can supply an interior rearview mirror assembly and/or anaccessory module assembly (with an interior mirror assembly mountingthereto) in accordance with the option(s) selected by a consumerordering an individual vehicle. Also, dealership and after-marketinstallation of an accessory module assembly is greatly facilitated.Only one mirror button need be mounted on the windshield (typically bythe windshield manufacturer), although, optionally more than oneattachment member can be adhered to the glass inner surface of thewindshield, preferably with a substantially opaque black-out frit tomask the presence of such members when viewed from outside the vehiclethrough the front windshield. Also, because a mirror mount design isused for the attachment of accessory module attachment portion 6851′ tothe windshield-mounted attachment member 6820′, such attachment can be abreak-away/detachable mounting that passes automaker and governmentalsafety standards and specifications for head impact, air-bag deployment,and the like, as well as being easy to install (such as at a vehicleassembly line) and/or to remove (such as during a service repair or thelike) while maintaining a secure, reliable attachment during normal usefor the vehicle lifetime. Also, a pivot joint 6803′ (such as a balljoint similar to that commonly used on interior mirror assembly supportarms, as described above) is provided on accessory module attachmentportion 6851′ so that should accessory module housing 6859′ be impacted,such as in an accident, the housing moves away from the impacting body(such as an occupant's head), thus reducing potential injury. Thus,accessory module 6812′ is adapted to meet automaker and regulatory headimpact standards and specifications. Pivot joint 6803′ also allowspositioning of accessory housing 6859′ to suit a driver's and/oroccupant's needs, such as, for example, to position information displayelement 6849′ for view by the driver and/or controls 6876′, 6874′, 6875′for ready access by the driver.

Also, and optionally, the accessory module assembly 6812 and the otherflip-down, articulatable video display assemblies described above can besupported by an attachment member separate from the windshield-mountedor header-mounted mirror attachment button or plate. Examples of suchseparate mounting members are described above. A preferred adhesive toattach windshield mirror mounting buttons and/or windshield mountingattachment members for supporting an accessory module assembly or avideo display assembly is a structural adhesive such as a modified epoxystructural bonding tape available from 3M of Minneapolis-St. Paul, Minn.under the trade names SBT9214, SBT9263 and SBT9270. Alternately, asilicone adhesive, such the silicone adhesive available from Dow Corningof Midland, Mich. under the trade name SOTEFA can be used or a polyvinylbutyral adhesive such as available from Solutia is can be used. Forheavier video mirror systems/accessory module assemblies, such as thoseweighing in excess of 500 g and particularly in excess of 750 g, use ofa structural bonding tape such as described above to bond the attachmentmember (such as the windshield mirror button) to the inner surface ofthe windshield is preferred.

Also, the video display in any of the video mirror applications of thepresent invention, such as video mirror system 6800, can function as thedisplay screen for a portable computer device, a portable cellularphone, and/or a portable personal digital assistant device (PDA) such asa PalmPilot® or other personal digital assistant. When serving as thedisplay screen of a PDA, the PDA/in-vehicle display screen canoptionally operate in combination with a cellular phone or as astand-alone device. Also, any of the video screens of the presentinvention, such as video screen 6831, can serve multiple purposes suchas a video screen for an on-board vehicular camera and/or as the videomonitor screen for a portable computing/PDA/cellularphone/telecommunication device. For example, a removabletelecommunication and/or computing accessory 6827 can be removablydocked into docking station 6828 of accessory module 6812. For example,and as described in disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000, which is incorporated herein in itsentirety and in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/449,121, filed Nov.24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein, a cellular phone or a personaldigital assistant device such as a PalmPilot® or a pager or a hand-heldcommunication device and the like can be removably attached to accessorymodule 6812. Also, note that, optionally, any of the display assemblies(such as the flip down displays described above) of the presentinvention and/or the camera assemblies of the present invention can bedetached and used remote from the vehicle (or hand-held in the vehicle)as part of a portable video device, portable computer monitor, portablePDA or portable navigation device.

Also, in order to reduce EMI/RF emissions from the video displayassembly when mounted as part of a video display system of the presentinvention, it is useful to utilize a metal element (such as a metal foilor a metalized sheet/film) as an emitted radiation shield in the videodisplay housing and/or in the video display attachment member housing toreduce electromagnetic radiation from any electronic circuitry/videoscreens therein. Also, any lens used in connection with this presentinvention can be fabricated out of a glass or a plastic/polymericmaterial. Also, and as described above, the video screen drivercircuitry can optionally be located remote, separate, and distant fromthe video screen that is located in the video display housing (such asby locating the video screen driver circuitry in a pod or attachmentplate attached to the mirror mount/mirror button as described above, andapart from the video housing that houses the video screen). Also,coaxial cabling (and preferably twisted-pair coaxial cabling) can beused to carry video and other signals throughout the vehicle body/cabin,such as from a rear-mounted reverse-aid camera to an interiormirror-mounted video screen. Also, in connection with installation of acamera module into a vehicle headliner as described above in connectionwith baby-minder cameras, a headliner repair kit can be provided thatenables a vehicle owner to patch or fill or otherwise repair/restore theportion of the headliner that had been adapted to receive the cameramodule should that camera module be removed (such as might occur on saleof the vehicle) or should the existing owner wish to remove thebaby-minder camera system for use in another vehicle.

As described above, a variety of displays and/or accessories can bemounted at or adjacent to the video display assemblies and/or mirrorassemblies of the present invention. For example, a remote transactioninterface system (such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,655 andU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/687,778 filed Oct. 9, 2000, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,547,133, the entire disclosure of which is herebyincorporated by reference herein) can be mounted, for example, in avideo display assembly or an accessory display assembly or a rearviewmirror assembly such as in any of those described above. One such remotetransaction includes interaction with an Intelligent Transport System,and specifically, with a toll card recognition system such as is foundin cities such as Singapore and major cities in Japan. In such toll cardrecognition systems, an electronic toll collection (ETC) system isprovided that includes a toll recognition transmitter and/or receiverpositioned outside a vehicle such as overhead a highway. As anETC-equipped vehicle approaches and/or passes under the toll recognitiontransmitter and/or receiver, an ETC assembly in the vehicle (usuallypositioned at the front windshield) establishes a wireless communicationlink (typically utilizing direct short-range communications technology)with the toll recognition transmitter and/or receiver over the highwayand a toll or access charge is paid by the subject vehicle. Often, sucha charge is paid via a Smart Money Card or similar debit and/or creditcard or an integrated circuit card that can be loaded or credited with acertain monetary amount (for example $100) at a bank or financialoutlet. The ETC unit in the vehicle typically receives thepayment/authority to pay/identity of payee from the debit and/or creditcard (such as by swiping through a magnetic strip reader) or by placinginto a magnetic-reading (or memory-chip-reading) slot. When the vehiclepasses the toll collection point, the toll charge is automaticallydeducted from the debit card or automatically charged to the credit cardused. Especially for debit cards, it is desirable for the driver to beable to see what amount of money is “loaded’ into the debit card, andhow much was paid on passing the toll, and what balance is left. Thus itis desirable to provide a display associated with such ETC in-vehicleunits and associated with similar remote transaction units that showsthe monetary amount before and/or after such remote transaction.

Further embodiments of video mirror systems 6900, 6900′, 7000, 7110,7210 of the present invention are shown in FIGS. 69, 69A, 70-73. Thesevideo mirror systems are similar in features and content to thosepreviously described.

Referring to FIG. 69, a remote transaction unit 6910 (such as anelectronic toll card transaction unit or assembly) is included inflip-down video display assembly 6970, which is mounted to an interiorrearview mirror assembly 6936 by a support 6990. Video display assembly6970 includes a video screen 6972 and optionally one or more buttons6980. Data relevant to operation of the remote transaction unit 6910(such as a toll charge and/or a card balance and/or an electronicreceipt) can be displayed on video screen 6972 (or optionally, onanother information display located on video display assembly 6970 or oninterior mirror assembly 6936 (such as a through-the reflector displayin mirror reflective element 6935 or a display-on-demand display inmirror reflective element 6935 or via a display located such as at bezelregion 6938 or displayed at a pod attached to a mounting member ofmirror assembly 6936)). Remote transaction unit 6910 is provided with amemory reader element 6914 (such as a magnetic strip reader). Electroniccircuitry used by remote transaction unit 6910 can be positioned at, onor within video assembly 6970 and/or at, on or within interior mirrorassembly 6936. Optionally, and referring to FIG. 69A, a cardreceiving/reading element 6913′ such as a slot that a debit/credit cardis inserted into (shown receiving credit/debit card 6916′) can beincluded in a remote transaction unit 6910 of video assembly 6970. Notethat these configurations have the advantage of allowing the driverremove the credit/debit card from the vehicle to protect against theftand/or to allow use of the credit/debit card in other transactionsremote from the vehicle. FIG. 70 shows the card reading/receivingelements 7010, 7014 located on the side of housing 7070 of the flip-downvideo display assembly 7081 of video mirror system 7000. Remotetransaction electronic elements 7020 (that may include severalelectronic boards 7091, 7092, which may include memory card readers,memory card slots, information displays, antennae, transmitter/receiver,encoders, electronic identifier and/or associated electronic components)are located in housing 7090 that attaches via swivel joint 7063 toattachment portion 7093 that detachably (preferably by a break-awayjoint) mounts to mounting portion 7051 of support 7030 of interiorrearview mirror assembly 7035. Note that other locations are possiblefor the remote transaction element such as on, at or within attachmentportion 7093 of video display assembly 7081 or at, on or within mirrorhousing 7040 of interior mirror assembly 7035. FIGS. 71 and 72 showembodiments of the present invention where the remote transactionelectronic elements 7150, 7250 (that may include memory card readers,memory card slots, information displays, antennae, transmitter/receiver,encoders, electronic identifier and/or associated electronic components)are located, respectively on, at or within the interior mirrorassemblies 7110, 7210 (such as at the side of the interior mirrorhousing away furthest from the seating location of the driver). Mirrorassembly 7110 includes a mirror casing 7112, a reflective element 7114,and a display 7116, which are mounted to a windshield or header by asupport 7118. Mirror assembly 7210 similarly includes a mirror casing7212, a reflective element 7214, a display 7215, and a support 7218. Thememory card receiving station or slot for such as an electronic tollcard assembly (as well as any associatedtransceiver/electronics/antennae and/or information display) can besupplied as part of the interior mirror assembly or as a part of anaccessory module assembly attaching to or local to the interior mirrorassembly.

By providing a remote transaction system such as an electronic toll cardsystem as part of a video display assembly (such as a flip-down videodisplay assembly) or by providing a remote transaction system such as anelectronic toll card system as part of an interior mirror assembly, avariety of features and functions can be economically supplied such asby sharing of printed circuit boards, display elements and powersupplies. Also, a video display assembly or an interior mirror assemblycan be supplied to an automaker with the ETC functionality built-in tothe video display assembly or the interior mirror assembly. Note alsothat, optionally, a printer can be included in any of the video displayassemblies and/or interior rearview mirror assemblies of the presentinvention to print out a receipt or record of an ETC transaction (or anyother transaction/event).

A further embodiment of a video mirror system 7300 of the presentinvention is shown in FIG. 73. Video mirror system 7300 includes aninterior rearview mirror assembly 7310 and a video display assembly7312, which incorporates a movable support that includes a support armand pivot joints. Similar to the previous embodiments, interior rearviewmirror assembly 7310 includes a mirror housing 7314 and a reflectiveelement 7316 (preferably, an electrochromic reflective element) and,further, a mirror housing support 7322. Mirror support 7322 includes asupport arm 7324, such as a dual-ball mount support arm, and a mirrormount 7326 which mounts to a mirror mounting button 7336 a, provided onattachment plate adapter element 7334. Adapter element 7334 mounts on amirror mounting button 7320, which is mounted to windshield 7318. System7300 further includes an accessory module assembly 7370 that includes ahousing 7381 that attaches by pivot joint 7374 to support arm 7372.Support arm 7372 includes a mounting portion 7371 that attaches(preferably detachably and via a break-away mount as described above) toattachment element 7369 (preferably a mirror mount-type button element)of attachment plate adapter element 7334. As noted above, attachmentplate adapter element 7334 attaches (preferably detachably and via abreak-away mount as described above) to windshield-mounted attachmentelement 7320 (preferably, a windshield-mounted button). Video displayassembly 7312 similarly attaches to attachment plate adapter element7334 by a support 7338 which includes an upper portion 7340 a withamounting portion 7335, which mounts onto a mirror mounting button 7336b, also mounted on adapter element 7334. Display assembly 7312 mounts tolower portion 7338 b, which preferably includes articulatable joints7340 a, 7340 b such as ball joints. Display assembly 7312 includes ahousing 7330 (with one or more actuatable buttons 7344) and a displayelement 7331, such as a video screen, and further, a circuit board 7342housed in housing 7330. Accessory module assembly 7370 includes aninformation display element 7378 capable of displaying information tothe driver. Information display element 7378 can comprise any one orcombination of the display types described above. For example, and whenused in conjunction with a tire pressure monitoring system such as isdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/513,941, filed Feb. 28,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,989, and “TIRE INFLATION ASSISTANCEMONITORING SYSTEM”, filed Nov. 10, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,445,287,the entire disclosures of which are incorporated by reference in theirentireties, the status of tire inflation in each of the four tires onthe vehicles four wheels can be displayed by information display 7378,and can be viewed by the driver just above and adjacent to the top ofmirror housing 7314. For example, the actual tire pressure in anindividual tire can be displayed digitally in pounds per square inch oftire pressure. Note that display element 7378 can be part of a tirepressure monitoring system that includes an external tire pressureinflation status indicator (such as disclosed in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/513,941, noted above) where a temperature sensor is includedthat senses the outside temperature and where the desired tire pressureis determined dynamically depending on the outside temperature sensed.In a hot climate (for example, over 25 degrees Celsius or so), a highertire pressure set point is selected for a tire's pressure than in acolder climate (less than 10 degrees Celsius, for example). Thus, anautomaker can store in a memory element of the tire pressure monitoringsystem a menu of individual tire pressures to recommend for inflation ofthe tires on the vehicle at particular outside temperatures. Then, whenthe tire pressure is detected (such as by an RF transmitting transducerin the tire itself and/or by monitoring a driving condition such asoperation of an ABS braking system) to fall below a particularrecommended tire pressure for the particular outside and/or tiretemperature actually being experienced, then the tire pressuremonitoring system alerts the driver, such as via a mirror-locateddisplay, that the tire pressure is above or below the tire pressurerecommended for that temperature, and preferably displays to the driverthe recommended tire pressure to use for that climatic condition. Thedriver can then stop at the next service station to adjust the tire(s)pressure. Accessory module 7370 further includes various circuitry 7384,7382, 7380, such as antennae and/or transmitters/receiver circuitry,located in adjustable housing 7381 of accessory module assembly 7370.For example, accessory module 7370 can comprise a stand-alone tirepressure display assembly including an information display of tirepressure and a receiver/antenna (as well as associated circuitry) thatreceives wireless transmissions (such as via RF transmission such as viaBLUETOOTH) from tire pressure monitoring transducers located in thetires of each of the wheels on the vehicle.

FIGS. 74-75 show further embodiments of the present invention. In videomirror system 7400, accessory module assembly 7470 attaches (preferablydetachably and by breakaway-attachment) to an attachment element 7473that is part of mirror mount member 7426 of interior mirror assembly7410. Numerals 7412, 7414, 7416, 7418, 7420, 7422, 7424, 7430, 7431,7438 a, 7438 b, 7440 a, 7440 b, 7442, 7472, 7477, 7478, 7480, 7481,7482, and 7484 correspond to the structures/devices described inreference to the like number in the 7300 series of the previousembodiment. In system 7500, accessory module 7570 attaches to mirrormount element 7526 of interior mirror assembly 7510 by a detachable(preferably break-away) attachment element 7571 (that can be a snap-onconnection or a stirrup connection or a clamp connection such aspreviously described above). Similar to the previous embodiments,interior rearview mirror assembly 7510 includes a mirror casing 7514,reflective element 7516 and a mirror support 7524, which extends frommirror mount element 7526. Preferably, support 7524 comprises adual-ball mount support; however, it can be appreciated, as in the caseof the previous embodiments, that support 7524 may comprise a singleball mount support or a rigid support mount. Mirror housing 7514 furtherincludes a video screen 7531 and control circuitry 7546. System 7500further includes an accessory assembly 7512. Accessory assembly 7512includes an attachment portion 7551, which is adapted to detachablymount to windshield mounting button 7520 of windshield 7518. Accessoryassembly 7512 includes a housing 7559 that optionally includes a varietyof vehicle accessories and controls, such as a GPS navigational system7554, preferably including a GPS antenna, and other accessories 7556,7555, 7558, such as a trainable garage door opener, a cellular phonesystem, including the complete telecommunication system antenna,transceiver, and/or telematic system including antenna and transceiverand/or an automatic toll booth remote transaction system. In addition,accessories may include a compass direction system such as describedabove. In addition, accessory housing 7559 also includes a microphonesystem 7550 which is suitable for use in voice command interactions,cellular phone interactions, telematic communications, and the like. Inaddition, accessory assembly 7512 may include a loud speaker 7552suitable to, for example, audibly convey to the driver navigationaldirections/or instructions from a GPS system 7554, or audibly read outemail messages received through an internet connection via telematiclink or the like. A rain sensor 7558 is also included at attachmentportion 7551. In addition, accessory housing 7559 includes aninformation display 7548 and includes a non-video information displayelement 7549 that is visible to the driver and/or occupant of thevehicle. Information display 7549 can be one of the display typesdescribed previously, such as vacuum fluorescent display, an LEDdisplay, an electroluminescent display or a liquid crystal display. Forfurther details of display, a reference is made to the previousembodiments. In addition, accessory assembly 7512 may also be equippedwith a video camera 7543 for viewing a portion of the interior of thevehicle. In addition, near IR and/or visible light sources such asdescribed previously can be positioned at housing 7559 so as toilluminate the target area being viewed by camera 7543. A forward facingcamera 7521 may also be provided at or within the accessory assembly7512 as described in reference to the previous embodiments. Preferablyand optionally, housing 7559 may include actuatable control 7575, whichare preferably provided on a front portion of accessory housing 7559 toallow user actuation of one or more vehicle functions and/oraccessories. Also, sensors, such as a light sensor, may be provided toallow measurement of cabin ambient lighting for a variety of purposes,such as automatic intensity control of the video image displayed onvideo screen 7531. Optionally, one or more light sources 7501 may beprovided at a lower surface of accessory housing 7559, such as forlighting an insert panel, floor, console, the gear shift, or maycomprise a map light.

Accessory module 7570 is of similar construction to accessory module7470 and 7370 and includes a housing 7581 which houses a variety ofcircuitry 7584, 7582, and 7580, such as antennas, transmitters,receivers, or the like. Housing 7581 is mounted to attachment element7571 by a support arm 7572, which, in the illustrated embodiment,includes pivot joint 7574, to permit repositioning of housing 7581 andto, in turn, adjust the orientation of display 7578.

Referring to FIG. 76, the numeral 7600 generally designates an interiorrearview mirror system incorporating a display. Interior rearview mirrorsystem 7600 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 7612 and aunitary rearview mirror support and information display assembly 7710.Assembly 7710 is adapted to be releasably secured or coupled to a frontwindshield W of a vehicle below the headliner/header section of thevehicle for viewing by one or more passengers of the vehicle. Rearviewmirror assembly 7612 includes a reflective element 7612 d includes amirror housing 7612 b and a reflective element 7612 d, which issupported in mirror housing 7612 b. Referring to FIG. 77, unitaryrearview mirror support and information display assembly 7710 includes arigid mirror stay 7714, preferably formed form a die-cast sink and anextending, mirror support ball pivot member 7716 formed in one piecewith the mirror stay 7714 on a neck portion 7718 in a lower end of themirror stay. Rearview mirror assembly 7612 pivots about ball member 7716to provide adjustment for reflective element 7612 d. Assembly 7710further includes a housing, which preferably is contoured to match aportion of mirror stay 7714 and, furthermore, is preferably removablyfitted to mirror stay 7714. Housing 7720 includes an information displayarea 7722 having a display element 7724 for conveying information to thevehicle operator and other occupants of the vehicle. In order to powerthe components in assembly 7710 and, further, in mirror assembly 7612,assembly 7710 includes harnessed electrical wiring 7726 and a connector7728 for connecting information display and any other various componentsto the electrical system of the vehicle and harnessed electrical wiring7730 which includes a connector 7732, which provides electrical servicefrom the vehicle electrical system to rearview mirror assembly 7712. Forfurther details of assembly 7710, reference is made to U.S. Pat. No.6,172,613, which is incorporated herein by reference in its entirety.

FIGS. 76 and 77 show further embodiments of the present invention.Referring to the FIGS., rearview mirror support assembly 7710 includes avehicle information display such as display 7624 or 7724, similar to theunitary interior mirror support and information display assemblydisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,087,953, the entire disclosure of which ishereby incorporated by reference herein. Support 7710 further includes apivot/swivel joint 7731 that allows adjustment of the viewing positionof information display 7624, 7724 when support assembly 7710 fixedlymounts to a windshield-mounted mirror attachment button as described inU.S. Pat. No. 6,087,953. As seen in FIG. 77, information display 7724can display tire pressure status and/or can display a variety ofinformation (such as the tire pressure display/compass directionalheading/exterior temperature display shown in display 7624 in FIG. 76)and such as is described above in relation to the other embodiments ofthe present invention. Mirror housing 7612 mounts to ball member 7718 toform a pivot joint that allows adjustment of mirror housing 7612 aboutsupport assembly 7710. Note that the connection of mirror housing 7612to support assembly 7710 can include a second pivot joint to allow“two-ball” adjustability of the mirror housing. Also, ball member 7718can optionally be replaced with a mirror assembly attachment member(such as with the mirror button configuration as used on that particularvehicle) and then the interior mirror assembly can detachably andpreferably, break-away attach to support assembly 7710. This allowsremoval of an existing interior mirror assembly from the windshieldbutton in a vehicle, mounting of support assembly 7710 on thatwindshield-mounted button, and reattachment of the existing interiormirror assembly (or another) onto support assembly 7710 via themirror-mounting button provided thereon. Note also that the variouscircuitry, antennae and transmitters/receiver discussed above can beincluded in housing 7714 of adjustable support/accessory assembly 7710such as vehicle tire pressure monitoring controller 7723 (thatpreferably includes an RF receiving antenna, a microprocessor and allthe circuitry, user input controls/buttons and other controls needed toreceive and process wireless signals broadcast from the various tirepressure sensors located in the tire on the wheels of the vehicle) ofrearview mirror support assembly 7710 (or alternately, can be positionedin adjustable mirror housing 7612 b behind reflective element 7612 d).Further, housing 7612 b or support/accessory assembly 7710 can include atelematic system including a telematic system including floating cardata can be included in any of the assemblies of the present inventionwhereby the vehicle transmits its position to a central aggregator. Thecentral aggregator also receives positional data from many othervehicles on that highway/in that region. The central aggregatorintegrates the position, speed, direction etc. of all the vehiclesinputting, as well as weather data, road repair data etc., traffic-flowdata, road-condition data and the like, and integrates these to reportback to individual vehicles the best possible route for that vehicle,taking all conditions including traffic, weather etc. into account.Also, telematic and/or cellular phone transmissions from the vehicle,such as described herein, can be detected and analyzed using wirelesslocation technology (such as is available from Webraska) in order tolocate the position of a mobile device user in a vehicle on a highway.Also, as described above, any of the telematic systems of the presentinvention can include a vehicle emergency messaging system.

As described above, use of a monochrome camera detector in combinationwith a color camera detector has advantages in some circumstances. FIG.78 shows a dual-camera detector assembly 7800 that comprises a singlelens/housing assembly 7810 and two video image capture detectors,monochrome sensor 7820 (preferably an OVT-7911A monochrome detector) andcolor sensor 7830 (preferably, an OVT-7910A color detector). A beamsplitter 7850, disposed behind lens/housing 7810 at a 45 degree angle,splits radiation (both IR and visible) passing through lens/housing7810, and directs a portion to sensor 7820 while passing a portion tosensor 7830. Preferably, the optical design of beam splitter 7850 (usingoptical designs known in the art) is such that both visible and near-IRlight is directed to B&W sensor 7820 and only essentially visible lightis directed to color sensor 7830 (and so avoid saturation during daytimeuse). Means as previously described are provided to select use of colorsensor 7830 by day (such as for example, in a baby minder system or arear-backup system) and to select monochrome sensor 7820 by night.

Referring to FIG. 79, an accessory module/mirror system 7900 of thepresent invention is illustrated. Accessory module/mirror system 7900includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 7910 and an accessorymodule 7912, which includes one or more viewable user interfaceaccessories 7950 and optionally one or more user interface accessories7951 (FIG. 8) which are accessible but positioned in a manner behindinterior rearview mirror 7910 so that they are not necessarily visibleto the driver of the vehicle when the driver is in a normal sittingposition, such as when driving.

As best seen in FIGS. 81 and 82, interior rearview mirror assembly 7910includes a mirror casing or housing 7914 and a reflective element 7916(for example a prismatic or an electro-optic reflective element) and,further, a mirror housing support 7929, similar to the previousembodiments. Optionally and preferably, when reflective element 7916comprises a prismatic reflective element, interior rearview mirrorassembly 7910 includes a toggle for adjusting the position of thereflective element between its day and night viewing positions, such asdescribed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/533,127, filed Mar. 23,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,318,870, which is incorporated herein byreference in its entirety. In addition, though illustrated as a dualball mount support, housing support 7929 may include a fixed support armor may include a single ball mount arrangement.

Accessory module 7912 is adapted to mount to a vehicle and, preferably,adapted to releasably mount in the interior of the vehicle. In theillustrated embodiment, accessory module 7912 is adapted to releasablymount to windshield 7918 on a windshield mounting button 7920 and,preferably, includes a mirror mount 7944, such as a channel shapedmember, which provides a break-away mounting for module 7912 on button7920. It should be understood that module 7912 may also be mounted to aheader of the vehicle. Button 7920 may be of conventional design and ispreferably mounted to the inner surface of windshield 7918 by anadhesive. In addition, accessory module 7912 preferably includes amirror mounting button 7936 for releasably mounting interior rearviewmirror assembly 7910 to module 7912 and, in turn, to windshield 7918.Alternately, accessory module 7912 can mount adjacent to but separatefrom the attachment element of the interior mirror assembly (such asmounting to a separate windshield-mounted attachment element orheader-mounted attachment member, such as described above).

Mirror housing support 7929 preferably comprises a dual ball mountsupport with a support arm 7924 and a mirror mount 7926 with ball andsocket connections between support arm 7924 and mirror mount 7926 andbetween support arm 7924 and mirror casing 7914 to provide pivoting ofsupport arm 7924 about mirror mount 7926 and/or pivoting of housing 7914about support arm 7924. Mirror mount 7926 releasably engages mirrormounting button 7936 of accessory module 7912 and provides a break-awaymounting of interior rearview mirror assembly 7910 to module 7912.

Referring again to FIG. 79, accessory module 7912 includes a modulehousing 7940 with a lower portion 7942 (FIGS. 80-82) including mirrormount 7944 for releasably engaging mirror mounting button 7920. Mirrormount 7944 is provided by a channel shaped recess which is either formedin housing 7940 or provided by a channel shaped member mounted tohousing 7940. An opposed side of lower portion 7942 of body 7940 isprovided with mirror mounting button 7936 and, preferably, with mirrormounting button 7936 aligned with mirror mount 7944. In this manner,when interior rearview mirror assembly 7910 is mounted to mirrormounting button 7936 and module 7912 is mounted to button 7920, mirrormounting button 7920 and mirror mounting button 7936 are aligned along acommon axis.

An upper portion 7946 of body 7940 is positioned above housing 7914,including bezel 7948, and reflective element 7916 of interior rearviewmirror assembly 7910 and includes one or more of the viewable userinterface accessories 7950. Accessories 7950 may include, for example, adisplay 7952, user-actuatable controls/buttons 7954, and/or lights 7956.In the illustrated embodiment, accessories 7950 are positioned on arearwardly facing portion of upper portion 7946 and are preferablyaligned to provide a compact arrangement which offers a wealth ofinformation in a small space.

In addition, accessory module 7912 may house a variety of vehicleaccessories and controls. For example, a GPS navigational system,including a GPS antenna, may be included in housing 7940. Otheraccessories that may, for example, be included in housing 7940 include atrainable garage door opener, such as a Homelink® Video Systemregistered trademark system available from JCI of Holland, Mich., and/ormay include a cellular phone system including a completetelecommunication system/antenna/transceiver and/or telematic systemincluding antenna and transceiver and/or an automatic toll booth/remotetransaction transceiver system and/or a compass direction system,including a compass sensor, such as described above and/or any of thevehicle accessories and functions described above. In addition, housing7940 may include a microphone system (preferably a multi-microphonearray including a digital sound processing system, which may also beincluding in housing 7940). Such a microphone system is suitable for usein voice command interactions, cellular phone interactions, hands-freephone operations, telematic communications, and the like. Furthermore,accessory module/mirror system 7900 may include a loud speaker, located,for example in housing 7940 or mirror casing 7914 (or, less preferably,elsewhere in the vehicle). Preferably, the loudspeaker comprises asolid-state, ceramic speaker element (such as a piezo-electricloudspeaker element). Such solid-state, ceramic speakers are provided ina thin configuration (less than 5 mm in thickness and often less than 3mm in thickness), and are available from such as Panasonic of Tokyo,Japan. These solid-state loudspeakers are particularly adaptable tomounting in a compact space (such as within the various housings of thepresent invention) and/or mounting onto a PCB. Preferably, module 7912also includes a carrier member 7958 positioned in housing 7940, forexample, in lower portion 7942, for supporting one or more of thevehicle accessories and controls, including supporting circuitry for thevarious user interface accessories.

User interface accessories 7950, such as user-actuatable buttons 7954,may be used to actuate or interface with one or more of the varioussystems, such as described above, which may be incorporated intoaccessory module/mirror system 7900. For example, buttons 7954 may beused to actuate such vehicle functions as the opening of a trunk or hoodof the vehicle, emergency light flashers, a road side assistance system,such as an ONSTAR® system, or the like. Display 7952 can function as adisplay screen for a GPS system, telematic system, a remote transactionsystem, or the like, which may or may not be incorporated into module7912. However, it is preferable that module 7912 provide aself-contained unitary module which houses complete systems, such as aGPS system comprising a GPS antenna, GPS circuitry, and a display screendisplaying the GPS information. In this manner, module 7912 isespecially suitable as an after-market product. However, optionally,module 7912 can be installed when the vehicle is being produced at theOEM automaker. Alternately or in addition, display 7952 can function asa display for a portable computer device, portable cellular phone,and/or a portable personal digital assistance device, such as aPalmPilot® or other personal digital assistant devices. In addition,display 7952 may serve multiple purposes, such as a video screen for anonboard vehicular camera and/or a video monitor screen for a portablecomputing/PDA/cellular phone/communication device. For example, aremovable telecommunication and/or computing accessory, as previouslydescribed, can be removably docked into a docking station of accessorymodule 7912. In addition, optionally, display 7952 may be removablymounted in accessory module 7912 so that display 7952 may be detachedand used remote from the vehicle such as part of a portable videodevice, portable computer monitor, portable PDA, or a portablenavigation device.

Display 7952 may include a display element 7952 a (FIG. 79), such as avacuum fluorescent display, an LED display, a field emission display, anelectroluminescent display, or a liquid crystal display and optionallymay comprise a multi pixel display capable of being reconfigured andcapable of displaying scrolling text including alphanumeric text invarious fonts and languages. In this manner, display 7952 may be used todisplay text messaging. For example, display element 7952 a may display,in response to a GPS system, for example the name of the next street orjunction or highway or entrance or exit ramp being approached by thevehicle equipped with accessory module/mirror system 7900.

Light or lights 7956 may form part of an interior camera surveillancesystem, such as previously described, and preferably comprise low-levelnon-incandescent light sources, such as light emitting diodes, organiclight emitting diodes, electroluminescent sources (inorganic andorganic), or the like. Other features that may be incorporated intoaccessory module/mirror system 7900 and, preferably into accessorymodule 7912, include an inclinometer, such as an accelerometer-basedinclinometer or a liquid based inclinometer. Such an inclinometer mayserve as a sensor to detect vehicle inclination and may be coupled to asystem such as a comprehensive anti-rollover system, which is especiallydesirable in vehicles with high centers of gravity (such as sportsutility vehicles).

In preferred form, upper portion 7946 of housing 7940 includes anadjustable portion such as telescoping portion 7960 on which userinterface accessories 7950 are mounted. In this manner, an occupant ofthe vehicle may adjust the position of the user interface accessories tosuit their needs. In order to accommodate the repositioning of userinterface accessories 7950, accessories 7950 are connected to carrier7958 by extendable cable or wiring 7962. In addition, generallynon-viewable user interface accessories 7951, such as phone jacks, powersockets, or card readers, or the like may be positioned behind mirrorcase 7914 on housing 7940. Since these accessories do not require visualinterface, unlike the video display buttons, or the like, they may beadvantageously positioned in non-viewable and otherwise unused spacethough these accessories may be viewed if the interior rearview mirrorassembly is removed or the user shifts their position to, for example, abent position.

Referring again to FIG. 81, in preferred form, upper portion 7946 ofhousing 7940 is spaced above casing 7914 of interior rearview mirrorassembly 7910 to permit an occupant of the vehicle to grasp housing 7914to adjust the position of reflective element 7916 without hindrance fromupper portion 7946 of housing 7940. In addition, movable portion 7960 ofhousing 7940 may optionally be provided with a sliding/swivel adjustmentso that, in addition to moving the user interface accessory 7950 towardor away from the user, user interface accessory 7950 may be tilted oradjusted downwardly or upwardly as desired.

In the illustrated embodiment, housing 7940 provides the various useractuatable or user visible accessories and/or displays at its upperportion. In this manner, the user interface accessories, such as useractuatable buttons 7954 and display 7952 and lights 7956 are positionedabove bezel 7948 and reflective element 7916, as previously noted,causing minimal distraction to the driver and, further, withouthampering the driver's forward field of view. Alternately, accessorymodule 7912 may include a housing with an enlarged lower portion whichextends and projects below bezel 7948 and reflective element 7916 or mayinclude both upper and lower portions which provide and positionaccessories both above and below housing 7914, as will be more fullydescribed in reference to FIGS. 86 and 87. Preferably, the lower portionof module 7912 is substantially located or nested behind the lowerportion of the adjustable mirror housing (such as casing 7914 of mirrorassembly 7910) of the interior mirror assembly so as to be essentiallynot visible/noticeable and thus unobtrusive to the driver during thedriver's normal driving task, and such as not to significantly intrudeinto the driver's forward field of vision through the windshield.

It can be appreciated from the foregoing description, that accessorymodule 7912 provides a suitable after-market product which can be simplyinstalled on an existing mirror mounting button, already provided by thevehicle manufacturer, with the interior rearview mirror assembly mounteddirectly onto the accessory module. Furthermore, accessory module 7912may be removed for repair, replacement, or upgrade as needed or asdesired. It should be noted that accessory module is separate anddistinct from interior mirror assembly 7910, and for example, optionallycan be manufactured and sold independent of the interior mirrorassembly, and by a different manufacturer. Also, optionally, accessorymodule 7912 (as with other accessory modules of the present invention)can attach to the windshield (or header region) at an attachment elementdifferent than that of the interior mirror assembly.

Referring to FIG. 83, the numeral 8012 generally designates anotherembodiment of the accessory module of the present invention. Accessorymodule 8012 includes a housing 8040, similar to the previous embodiment,and illustrates an alternate arrangement for viewable user interfaceaccessories 8050. User interface accessories 8050 are positioned similarto user interface accessories 7950 above bezel 7948 and reflectiveelement 7916 of interior rearview mirror assembly 7910. In theillustrated embodiment, user interface accessories 8050 include adisplay 8052 which is positioned closer to the left hand side of module8012 to be positioned for closer viewing to the driver of the vehicle(in the case of a vehicle that drives on the right hand side of theroad) and a plurality of buttons 8054 which are grouped together on theright hand side of accessory module 8012 (as viewed in FIG. 83). Similarto the previous embodiment, user interface accessories 8050 include apair of lights 8056 which are positioned on opposed ends of upperportion housing 8040 to provide lighting to both sides of the vehicleinterior.

It should be understood, that the selection and arrangement of userinterface accessories 7950, 8050 may be modified to suit the needs ofthe vehicle manufacturer or the customer. In addition, because accessorymodules 7912 and 8012 comprise separate unitary modules, modules 7912and 8012 are particularly suitable in an after-market installation orfor being produced at the OEM automaker. In addition, modules 7912, 8012may be provided in a variety of models including economy, mid-range, anddeluxe models, for example.

Referring to FIG. 84, another embodiment of the accessory module/mirrorsystem 8100 of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 8100 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly8110 and an accessory module 8112. Interior rearview mirror assembly8110 may be similar to any one of the previous embodiments and,therefore, reference is made therein for further details. Similar to theprevious embodiments, accessory module 8112 mounts to the vehicle and,preferably, to windshield 8118 on a mirror mounting button 8120, whichis provided on the windshield typically by the vehicle manufacturer.Accessory module 8112 includes a housing 8140 with a lower portion 8142including a channel or mirror mount (similar to mirror mount 7944) onone side of housing 8140, for releasably mounting module 8112 to button8120, and a mirror mounting button 8136 on its opposed side forreleasably mounting interior rearview mirror assembly 8110 to mirrormount 8112 using a break-away connection, which in turn is releasablymounted to windshield 8118 using a break-away connection on button 8120.As noted in reference to the previous embodiment, mirror mounting button8136 may be formed on housing 8140 or may be secured thereto usingconventional means, such as fasteners, an adhesive, or the like.

Upper portion 8146 of housing 8140 preferably comprises a telescopingportion which permits adjustment or repositioning of the viewable userinterface accessories 8150, which are mounted in housing 8140. Userinterface accessories 8150 may include for example a display 8152, aplurality of user actuatable buttons 8154, and a microphone and/orspeaker 8156. As described in reference to the previous embodiment,accessory module 8112 may incorporate a plurality of different systemsincluding user interface systems, such as a GPS system, a roadsideassistance system, a telematic system, a remote transaction system orthe like. Display 8152, therefore, may display information relating tothe GPS system, telematic system, remote transaction interaction system,and/or roadside assistance system, for example using text messaging orthe like. Furthermore, buttons 8154 may be used to actuate orcommunicate with any of the various systems. For example, one button maybe used to activate a roadside assistance system, such as an ONSTAR®system. In addition, buttons 8154 may be used to activate vehiclesystems, such as a hood or trunk latch, to turn on an interior light, orthe like.

Similar to the previous embodiments, accessory module 8112 is especiallysuitable as an after-market product which can be mounted to aconventional mirror mounting button which is provided by the vehiclemanufacturer. Other accessories which may be included in accessorymodule 8112 include antennas, including antennas for garage dooropeners, keyless entry systems, radio receiver, microwave receivers,remote transaction transceivers, toll payment transceivers, cellularphone systems, telematic systems, or the like. In addition, accessorymodule 8112 may incorporate one or more image capturing devices, such asa CCD camera or a CMOS camera, for use, for example, as a video phonecamera or a seat occupancy camera, or a vehicle interior surveillancecamera, or the like, or may incorporate a compass direction sensor (suchas described above) or a rain sensor/fog sensor/fogging sensor (such asdescribed above). In addition, display 8152 may display images collectedfrom the image capturing device and/or information from any of theaccessories in accessory module 8112 (and/or from accessories locatedelsewhere in the vehicle such as at, on or within the interior mirrorassembly and/or an exterior mirror assembly).

Referring again to FIG. 84, accessory module 8112 further optionallyincludes a vehicle power socket 8160 connected to the vehicle ignitionsystem or a battery electrical system, such as a cigarette lighter typesocket (conventional in many automobiles) into which accessories can beplugged. In the illustrated embodiment, socket 8160 is located on therearward facing side 8140 a (when module 8112 is mounted to mountingbutton 8120) and preferably behind interior rearview mirror casing 8114.In this manner, socket 8160 is located in a portion of module 8112hidden by interior rearview mirror assembly 8114 and, yet, is accessibleto an occupant of the vehicle. Alternately, module 8112 can be wired tothe vehicle electrical system and/or be solar-powered via solar panels.In preferred form, user interface accessories which require visualinteraction or recognition are preferably located in the visibleportions of module 8112, such as upper portion 8146 of housing 8140,which is above interior rearview mirror casing 8114.

Referring to FIG. 86, another embodiment 8200 of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 8200 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly8210 and an accessory module 8212. For further details of interiorrearview mirror assembly 8210, reference is made to the previousembodiments. Accessory module 8212 is adapted to releasably mount to aninterior of a vehicle, such as to a windshield 8218, on a mirrormounting button 8220. In addition, accessory module 8212 includes amirror mounting button 8236 on which interior rearview mirror assembly8210 may be releasably mounted to accessory module 8212 and in turnwindshield 8218. Similar to the previous embodiments, preferably mirrormounting buttons 8220 and 8236 are aligned along a common axis toprovide a serial mounting of interior rearview mirror assembly 8210 andaccessory module 8212 (although other mounting configurations arepossible including a parallel mounting on a common attachment adapterelement, or separate mounting, as described above). Alternately, otherattachment elements can be used, such as described above.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 8212 includes a housing8240 with a generally C-shaped cross-section to form an upper portion8246, for positioning above casing 8214 of interior rearview mirrorassembly 8210, and a lower portion 8242 for positioning below housing8214 of interior rearview mirror assembly 8210. In addition, housing8240 includes a central portion 8243, which includes a mounting member8244 for releasably engaging mirror mounting button 8220 and, further,includes mirror mounting button 8236. As previously described above,mirror mounting button 8236 is preferably aligned with mirror mount 8244and, thus, is provided on central portion 8243 of housing 8240 on anopposed side or rearward facing side of accessory module 8212.

In the illustrated embodiment, upper portion 8246 is adapted to beadjustable, by an adjustable element such as by a pivot, tilt, swivel,or nesting connection 8242 a or a combination thereof, so that theviewable user interface accessories 8250 are visually and/or physicallyaccessible to an occupant of the vehicle and, further, are adjustable tomeet the occupant's needs. For examples of optional user interfaceaccessories, reference is made to the previous embodiments.

Lower portion 8242 is optionally similarly adapted to be adjustable,such as by a pivot, tilt, swivel, or nesting connection 8242 a, so thatthe various user interface accessories 8252 supported thereon or thereinmay be repositioned along with lower portion 8242 of housing 8240. Inthe illustrated embodiment, lower portion 8242 protrudes rearwardly fromcentral portion 8243 such that accessories 8252 are positionable belowhousing 8214 of interior rearview mirror assembly 8210 or slightlyrearward of bezel 8248 and reflective element 8216 as desired.

Module 8212, similar to the previous embodiment, may include a pluralityof systems and accessories as previously described, such as an antenna8262, an image capturing device 8264, a microphone 8266, and/or aspeaker 8268. Accessory module 8212 may include other or furtheraccessories, including, for example a message recorder or digital notetaker 8270, whereby voice recordings, such as telephone numbers, notes,dictation, preferably short dictations, can be recorded for easy replayby an occupant of the vehicle. In addition, digital message recorder ordigital note taker 8270 may be used in conjunction with microphones(such as 8266) or speakers (such as 8268) located in module 8212 orelsewhere in the vehicle. In addition, recorder and/or note taker 8270may be used as an answering machine for use with a digital phone, whichis either incorporated into module 8212, interior rearview mirrorassembly 8210, or elsewhere in the vehicle. Thus, digital messagerecorder and/or note taker 8270 can play back the message or notes asthe occupant of the vehicle so chooses or as controlled by a setting inthe digital message recorder or not taker. In addition, digital messagerecorder or digital note taker 8270 may be adapted to communicate with adockable cellular phone, such as described in patent application Ser.No. 09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172, andpatent application Ser. No. 09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000, which areherein incorporated in their entireties by reference herein.Alternately, digital message recorder or digital note taker 8270 (or anyother accessory in module 8212) may communicate with (and/or serve as amessage recorder for) a phone remote from module 8212 or interiorrearview mirror assembly 8210, such as a phone in a pocket of a vehicleoccupant, a bag, or a compartment, so that messages may be downloadedfrom the remote cellular phone to the digital message recorder ordigital note taker using, for example, a short range communicationprotocol, such as BLUETOOTH, as previously described. In this manner,the occupant of the vehicle may choose to screen incoming calls on theirphone.

Referring to FIG. 87, another embodiment 8300 of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 8300 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly8310 and an accessory module 8312. For further details of interiorrearview mirror assembly 8310, reference is made to the previousembodiments. Accessory module 8312 is similar to accessory module 8212and is adapted to releasably mounted to an interior vehicle, such as awindshield 8318 on a mirror mounting button 8320. Modular 8312 includesa housing 8340 with an upper portion 8346, which is preferablyadjustable similar to upper portion 8246 of the previous embodiment, alower portion 8342, and a medial or central portion 8343. In theillustrated embodiment, lower portion 8342 comprises a fixed portion,which extends below central portion 8343 and below support 8329 ofinterior rearview mirror assembly 8310 but preferably forwardly ofhousing 8314 of interior rearview mirror assembly 8310. In this manner,lower portion 8342 is essentially hidden or in anunobtrusive/unnoticeable position to minimize the distraction to thedriver while optimizing the use of the space below and behind the mirrorhousing 8314 of interior rearview mirror assembly 8310, while minimizinginterference with the driver's forward field of view through thewindshield. Lower portion 8342, similar to lower portion 8242, includesa plurality of user interface accessories 8352, which are positioned insuch a manner to permit easy physical access to the various accessoriesmounted thereon or therein. For example, lower portion 8342 may includea microphone 8366, a speaker 8368, and a digital message recorder and/ornote taker 8370 as previously noted. In addition, accessory module 8312may also incorporate an accessory, such as a tire pressure displaysystem, including an information display such as disclosed in U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,172,613, the disclosure of which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety. The tire pressure display system may includea wireless receiver such as an RF receiver that receives wirelesscommunication from individual tire sensors, such as piezo-electrictransducers, located in the individual tire valves and/or wells of thevehicle such as is described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,741,966 the disclosureof which is herein incorporated by reference in its entirety. Variousother accessories may also be incorporated into module 8312. For furtherdetails of additional or other accessories which may be incorporated,reference is made to the previous embodiments. It should also beunderstood, that lower portion 8342 may optionally comprise anadjustable portion similar to lower portion 8242 of the previousembodiment.

Referring to FIG. 88, another embodiment 8410 of a flip down videodisplay assembly/accessory module of the present invention isillustrated. Accessory module 8410 is suitable for mounting in aninterior of a vehicle such as to an interior rearview mirror assembly,for example at the interior rearview mirror assembly housing, interiorrearview mirror housing support, or to a mirror mount assembly similarto the mounting arrangements described in reference to the previousembodiments. Optionally, accessory module 8410 may be separatelymounted, such as to the windshield or headliner of the vehicle. In theillustrated embodiment, accessory module 8410 includes a display unit8412 and a mounting unit 8414. By way of reference to FIGS. 64A-66B ofthe previous embodiments, mounting unit 8414 is adapted to releasablymount to a mirror mount of an interior rearview mirror assembly. Forexample, the mirror mount of the interior rearview mirror assembly mayinclude a mounting button on which mounting unit 8414 is mounted toprovide a break-away connection between accessory module 8410 and theinterior rearview mirror assembly. As a result, the interior rearviewmirror assembly and the accessory module are serially mounted, forexample on a windshield mounting button, where either the interiorrearview mirror assembly may break-away from the windshield mountedmounting button along with the accessory module or the accessory moduleitself may break-away from the interior rearview mirror assembly.Further details of the mounting unit will be described later inreference to FIGS. 105-109.

As best seen in FIG. 90, display unit 8412 includes a housing 8416 and adisplay element 8418. Optionally, display unit 8412 may include one ormore user actuatable interface devices/elements 8420, such asuser-actuatable buttons or the like. As will be more fully describedbelow, display unit 8412 is pivotally mounted to mounting unit 8414 by aswivel pivot mount 8422 which permits repositioning of display unit 8412to a plurality of viewing positions and, further, for pivoting to astowed or folded position to minimize the encroachment on the forwardfield of view of the driver of the vehicle when the display unit is notin use, for example. Thus, for example, display unit may be movableabout mounting unit 8412 so that the position of the display unit can beadjusted about at least one axis, preferably about at least two axes,more preferably about at least 3 axes, to position the display element8418 and user-actuatable devices at a location or viewing angle desiredor preferred by the occupant of the vehicle such as the driver or frontseat passenger.

As best seen in FIG. 89, display unit 8412 optionally includes a usercontrol 8424, such as a rheostat, which may be used to adjust thebrightness of display element 8418. In the illustrated embodiment, usercontrol 8420 includes a button 8428 and is mounted to be accessible atthe back housing cover 8426 of housing 8416 so that while the button8428 of rheostat 8424 is not visible to the user, button 8428 is easilyaccessible for adjusting the brightness of display element 8418.

Display element 8418 may comprise a display element such as anincandescent display, vacuum fluorescent display, liquid crystaldisplay, electroluminescent display, light emitting diode display,cathode ray tube display, field emission display, E-ink display, ororganic emitting polymer display element or the like. Preferably,display element 8418 is a video display element and, more preferably,utilizing a multi-pixel liquid display having a video screen diameterless than about 3 inches across its diagonal, more preferably, less than2.5 inches across its diagonal, and most preferably less than 2 inchesacross its diagonal. Examples of suitable displays may be found inapplication Ser. No. 09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,172,613, or U.S. Pat. No. 5,530,240, and U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/433,467, filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613,commonly assigned, which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. In addition, display element 8418 may comprise atouch-sensitive display, such as described in U.S. provisionalapplication Ser. No. 60/192,721, filed Mar. 27, 2000.

As noted above, user-actuatable devices 8420 may compriseuser-actuatable buttons, which in the illustrated embodiment, are formedby a keypad 8430 (FIG. 92). Keypad 8430 may be formed from a resilientmaterial, such as silicone material. Keypad 8430 is positioned behindfront cover 8432 of housing 8416 and provides, for example, on/offfunctions and indicators for various vehicle and/or mirror assemblyfunctions, as will be more fully described below. Furthermore, one ormore buttons formed by keypad 8430 may be backlit by a light sourceprovided and mounted to, for example, an auxiliary switch circuit board8468 in housing 8416.

Referring to FIG. 91, housing front cover 8432 preferably comprises aplastic housing, such as a reinforced polymer including glass or mineralfilled nylon, which is formed by molding. Housing front cover 8432includes a first, central opening 8440 with which the display element8418 is aligned and a plurality of smaller openings 8442 through whichkeypad 8430 extends to form the user-actuatable buttons. Referring toFIG. 92, keypad 8430 is positioned over openings 8442 such that keys8430 a, 8430 b, and 8430 c project through openings 8442 to form buttons8420. As best seen in FIG. 91, front cover 8432 includes a plurality ofmounting bosses 8444 on which a mounting frame 8460 (FIG. 95) ismounted, as will be more fully described below.

Referring to FIGS. 93 and 94, display element 8418 is electricallycoupled to a circuit board 8462 by a cable 8464 and wiring 8466 and ispositioned over opening 8440. Once the display element 8418 ispositioned over opening 8440, frame 8460 is aligned over keypad 8430 anddisplay element 8418 and, further, secured in place by fasteners orheatstaking to mounting bosses 8444 to thereby mount keypad 8430 anddisplay element in cover 8432. Once frame 8460 is installed (See FIG.96), circuit board 8462 may be mounted over frame 8460 in front cover8432. In addition, auxiliary switch circuit board 8468 is then alignedwith keys 8430 a, 8430 b, and 8430 c to provide the switch mechanismsfor the respective user-actuatable buttons 8420. As previously noted,associated with each switch 8470 is an optional light source 8472, suchas a non-incandescent light source, for example light emitting diodes(LED's), which are adapted to provide back-lighting of buttons 8420. Forexample, suitable light emitting diodes are available from HewlettPackard of Palo Alto, Calif. In addition, buttons 8420 may includeindicia, such as a camera symbol, a light symbol, an on/off symbol, orthe like.

Referring to FIGS. 98 and 100, preferably after circuit boards 8462 andauxiliary circuit board 8468 are mounted in cover 8432, pivot mount 8422is positioned in cover 8432. As best seen in FIG. 99, pivot mount 8422includes a T-shaped body 8474 with a transverse arm 8476 and adownwardly depending arm 8478 which is positioned in a mounting collar8480 formed in front cover 8432. Downwardly depending arm 8478 includesan enlarged flange 8482 which axially retains pivot member 8422 incollar 8480. Extending around transverse arm 8476 and downwardlydepending arm 8478, is a spring assembly 8484. Spring assembly 8484provides resistance for pivot mount 8422 whereby display unit overcomesthe spring force of spring assembly 8484 when it is moved and at thesame time is held in position by spring assembly 8484. For example, inthe illustrated embodiment, spring assembly 8484 includes an opencylindrical body portion 8486 with a pair of upwardly extendingretaining lips 8488 and, further, a downwardly depending opencylindrical portion 8490, which extends around downwardly depending arm8478. In addition, optionally positioned in collar 8480 is a spring (notshown) to urge flange 8482 into bearing contact with the end of collar8480 to thereby retain pivot member 8422 in front cover 8432.

As previously noted, optionally, display unit 8410 includes user control8424. User control 8424 includes a circuit board 8424 a on which arheostat circuit 8424 b and a movable button 8426 are mounted. As button8426 is moved, the resistance in the circuit varies to thereby increaseor decrease the current supply to the display element 8418 and, thereby,increase or decrease the brightness of display element 8418.

Referring to FIGS. 102-104, back cover 8426 of display unit 8410includes a transverse opening 8426 a and, further, a plurality ofmounting bosses 8426 b. As best seen in FIG. 103, circuit board 8424 ais mounted on mounting bosses 8426 b, for example by heatstaking or thelike. Referring to FIG. 104, when circuit board 8424 a is mounted toback cover 8426, button 8428 projects through opening 8426 a of backcover 8426. In this manner, an occupant of the vehicle can reach behindthe display module and move button 8428 to adjust the brightness ofdisplay element 8418.

Referring to FIG. 105, a base 8492 of mounting module 8414 isillustrated. Similar to housing 8416, mounting module 8414 includes ahousing 8417 formed by a base 8492 and cover 8499. Base 8492 and cover8499 are preferably formed, such as by molding, from a plastic material,such as a reinforced polymer, including mineral filled, such as glassfilled, nylon. Base 8492 includes a plurality of mounting bosses 8494for mounting a second circuit board 8496 (FIGS. 106 and 107). Circuitboard 8496 may include a plurality of electronic or electricalcomponents, for example such as a variety of electrical and electronicfeatures which can be incorporated into the accessory module 8410, suchas those disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467, filedNov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613, commonly assigned, which isherein incorporated by reference in its entirety. For example, amicrophone or a plurality of microphones may be incorporated, preferablyto provide hands-free input to a wireless telecommunication system suchas the ONSTAR™ system in use in General Motors vehicles. Most preferablysuch microphones provide input to an audio system that transmits andcommunicates wirelessly with a remote transceiver, preferably in voicerecognition mode. Such systems are described in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/382,720, filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,243,003,the disclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein.Microphones, sound processing systems and other accessories suitable touse in the mirror systems and accessory modules of the present inventionare disclosed in co-assigned U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,420,975; Ser. No. 09/396,179filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377; Ser. No. 09/382,720filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,243,003; Ser. No. 09/449,121filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172; Ser. No. 09/433,467filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613; and Ser. No. 09/448,700filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925, the entire disclosuresof all of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein.

In this regard it may be desirable to use audio processing techniquessuch as digital sound processing to ensure that vocal inputs to thevehicular audio system are clearly distinguished from cabin ambientnoise such as from wind noise, HVAC, and the like. Also, noisecancellation techniques such as destructive interference canadvantageously be used, whereby the signal as picked up by themicrophone is processed, the human vocal signal is distinguished fromthe noise signal, and whereby the noise signal is fed back 180° out ofphase with itself in order to cancel out the noise by destructiveinterference and so enhance the vocal signal to background noise ratio.

Preferably the microphone interfaces to an audio system that includes ananalog to digital converter and/or a digital to analog converter for thepurpose of converting the analog output of the microphone to a digitalsignal for input to a digital sound processor and for conversion of thedigital output of a digital sound processor to an analog signal forwireless transmission to a remote transceiver. Digital sound processingtechniques may be used to enhance the vocal signal to background noisediscrimination ratio. Also, both analog and digital audio filteringtechniques can be used to enhance the vocal to background noise ratio,and so assist clarity of transmission and/or receipt at a remotereceiver and so improve accuracy in voice recognition mode. Also,physical techniques such as sound insulation, acoustic wave guides,angling of microphones to selectively detect speech versus backgroundnoise, and/or use of a directed microphone directed to a potential humanspeaker in conjunction with a more omnidirectional microphone intendedto detect background noise can be used. An adaptive signal processingsystem can be used to enhance vocal to noise ratio. Mechanicalcancellation of ambient noise can be provided, as can a noise cancelingpressure gradient microphone, preferably in conjunction with acousticports including voice and noise ports. Such a system is disclosed inWorld Pat. publication WO 9817046 of Apr. 23, 1998, the disclosure ofwhich is hereby incorporated by reference in its entirety.

As noted above, accessory module 8410 may include a display elementwhich comprises a video screen and includes at least one camera forproviding an image of an area not viewable by the reflector element ofthe interior rearview mirror assembly when it is adjusted for drivingconditions. The camera may incorporated into the accessory module or maycomprise a separate accessory module such as described in reference tothe camera accessory modules described in reference to FIGS. 110-122.Preferably, the camera may be directed toward the rear seats of thevehicle so as to function as a child minder. The portion of the vehiclebeing viewed by the camera (preferably a CCD and, most preferably, asolid state CMOS camera) is preferably illuminated. Preferably, thevideo camera selected, such as a CMOS camera, is sensitive in thenear-infrared region and most preferably thus has at least some nightvision capability. Most preferably, the illumination is provided(preferably, mounted at and illuminating from the mounting site of thecamera itself) by one or more near-infrared illumination sources, suchas light emitting diodes (such as red or orange light emitting diodes orIR emitting diodes) which emit efficiently in the near-infrared portion(wavelengths from approximately 0.75 microns to about 1.5 microns), butwhich do not emit efficiently in the visible portion (wavelengths belowapproximately 0.75 microns) of the electromagnetic spectrum. IR-emittingdiodes suitable to illuminate an interior cabin portion of a vehicle,such as a baby seat mounted on a rear seat, for use in conjunction witha camera capturing a video image of that portion, are available fromLUMEX Incorporated of Palatine, Ill. For example, a plurality of atleast two, and preferably at least four, LUMEX OED-EL-1L2 IR-emittingdiodes can be incorporated, such as in the accessory module 8410 or maybe provided with a separate camera module, and used to illuminate avehicle portion by the video camera (preferably a solid-state CMOSmulti-pixel-array camera that, most preferably, does not include aninfrared filter over its lens). The LUMEX OED-EL-1L2 IR-emitting diodehas a peak radiation output at around 940 mm, and is provided as a T-5mm leaded case with a clear epoxy lens, and operates at a forwardcurrent of up to 100 milli-amps. Therefore, a local area of the interiorcabin of the vehicle (such as an area occupied by a child seat) may beilluminated with near-IR radiation in a range which the camera issensitive to, such that the system can form a clear image of the area onthe display, while the cabin is not illuminated with visible lightwhich, at night, may be sufficient to cause glare or discomfort to thedriver and/or passengers in the illuminated area. Also, when using suchlow-level lighted, directed light sources such as LED's to illuminatethe portion of the vehicle cabin being imaged by an in-cabin camera orcameras, the like of a child sleeping in a child seat will not bedisturbed by the incident light beam, particularly when its emittedintensity is principally in the infrared region that is invisible to thehuman eye.

Also, multiple images can optionally be displayed in the video screen ofthe current invention. Thus, for example, should the video screen bedisplaying an image relating to a GPS system, and should the driver wantto view the image from an in-cabin camera that views a baby or childseat on a rear seat, the driver can select the baby/child monitoringimage as a secondary image displayed on the mirror-located video screen.Such use of a picture-in-a-picture (or PIP) allows multiple images to beviewed by the driver and/or occupants of the vehicle.

In addition, an electronic card reader, such as for a credit card or anelectronic toll card or the like, may be incorporated into accessorymodule 8410. Optionally, the information relating to the transaction maybe displayed on display element 8418. For example, the card reader mayform part of a remote transaction interface system (such as is describedin U.S. Pat. No. 6,158,655 and U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/687,778, filed Oct. 9, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,547,133, the entiredisclosure of which is hereby incorporated by reference herein. In thismanner, the information relating to the transaction may be displayed ondisplay element 8418 or another display element located in the vehicle.One such remote transaction includes interaction with an IntelligentTransport System, and specifically, with a toll card recognition systemsuch as is found in cities such as Singapore and major cities in Japan.In such toll card recognition systems, an electronic toll collection(ETC) system is provided that includes a toll recognition transmitterand/or receiver positioned outside a vehicle such as overhead a highway.As an ETC-equipped vehicle approaches and/or passes under the tollrecognition transmitter and/or receiver, an ETC assembly in the vehicle(usually positioned at the front windshield) establishes a wirelesscommunication link (typically utilizing direct short-rangecommunications technology) with the toll recognition transmitter and/orreceiver over the highway and a toll or access charge is paid by thesubject vehicle. Often, such a charge is paid via a Smart Money Card orsimilar debit and/or credit card or an integrated circuit card that canbe loaded or credited with a certain monetary amount (for example $100)at a bank or financial outlet. The ETC unit in the vehicle typicallyreceives the payment/authority to pay/identity of payee from the debitand/or credit card (such as by swiping through a magnetic strip reader)or by placing into a magnetic-reading (or memory-chip-reading) slot.When the vehicle passes the toll collection point, the toll charge isautomatically deducted from the debit card or automatically charged tothe credit card used. For example, any information transmitted to thevehicle as it passes through the toll may be displayed on displayelement 8418, including the amount to be charged and optionally thebalance remaining on the toll card, for example. It may also display awarning message either via a visual in the display element or an auralsign or both when the ETC card has reached a credit level insufficientto pay additional tolls. Especially for debit cards, it is desirable forthe driver to be able to see what amount of money is “loaded’ into thedebit card, and how much was paid on passing the toll, and what balanceis left. Thus it is desirable to provide a display, such as displayelement 8418, associated with such ETC in-vehicle units and associatedwith similar remote transaction units that shows the monetary amountbefore and/or after such remote transaction.

Also, personal credit microchips may be used for payment via a shortrange wireless communication such as via BLUETOOTH. For example, anoccupant of the vehicle, including the driver, may, for example, carryan ‘electronic” wallet in his/her pocket or purse. The microchip then“pays” the toll via a BLUETOOTH RF communication transmission/linkbetween the “electronic” wallet and an ETC unit mounted, for example atthe accessory module 8410 or at the interior mirror assembly orelsewhere in the interior cabin of the vehicle.

Furthermore, display element may display images such as the imagescaptured by a rear vision system, including an interior monitoringsystem or a reverse aid system described above and in reference to thecamera modules described in reference to FIGS. 110-122.

In the illustrated embodiment, circuit board 8496 includes a connector8497, for example a 16-pin connector for connecting the variouselectronic and electrical components to the vehicle electrical systemand optionally to an onboard computer. Connector 8497 aligns with anaccess opening 8499 a of a cover 8499 of mounting module 8414, whichwill be more fully described below.

Base 8492 further includes a flange 8498 which includes a transverseopening 8498 a for receiving pivot mount 8422 of display unit 8412.Projecting inwardly from the outer perimeter of opening 8498 a are aplurality of fingers 8498 b and 8498 c. Fingers 8498 c are offset fromfingers 8498 b to define a seat therebetween for transverse arm 8476 ofpivot member 8422. Spring 8484 is also seated on fingers 8498 b and 8498c such that pivot member 8422 together with fingers 8498 b, 8498 c forma biased flip mechanism so that display unit 8412 may be easily movedbetween its viewing position, for example as illustrated in FIG. 88 anda folded or stowed position, similar to accessory module illustrated inFIG. 65A.

Referring to FIGS. 108 and 109, cover 8499, as previously described,includes an access opening 8499 a for aligning with connector 8497 ofcircuit board 8496. In addition, cover 8499 includes mounted thereon amounting member 8499 b. In the illustrated embodiment, mounting member8499 b comprises a metal channel-shaped member which is adapted toprovide a break-away connection between mounting module 8414 and, forexample, an interior rearview mirror assembly, such as on a mountingbutton which may be provided at the interior rearview mirror assemblymirror mount or on the interior rearview mirror housing itself.Alternately, mounting member 8499 b may be mounted on a separate mirrormount, such as provided on a headliner or a windshield of a vehicle.

In addition, display element 8418 may display information, such asinformation relating to a GPS Navigation system, an ETC system (as notedabove), an ONSTAR system, which may be located in module 8410 orelsewhere in the vehicle, or email.

Module 8410 may also include a memory chip for display element 8418,mounted for example to one of the circuit boards provided in module8410, so that the images may be stored for later retrieval so that anoccupant, such as the driver, of the vehicle may replay the image shouldthe driver forget the image or wish to retrieve it some other time.Furthermore, module 8410 may include a small printer so that messages orimages, such as email messages or GPS maps or the like, may bedownloaded and printed on the printer for retrieval by an occupant ofthe vehicle. The printer may also be located elsewhere in the vehicle,such as at the interior rearview mirror assembly. As previously noted,module 8410 may incorporate a microphone module, which may be used torecord information, such as on a memory chip for later retrieval orrecording such as on a recording device. In this manner, the occupantmay replay the information should the occupant forget or wish toretrieve it at some other time. It should be understood that module 8410may incorporate one or more of these devices and, further, be integratedwith other systems, devices, and/or functions or the like locatedelsewhere in vehicle.

As would be understood by those skilled in the art, the presentaccessory module integrates various and optionally numerous features ina modular, compact design that is easy to assemble and further can beassembled using a wide variety of off-the shelf items and thus providesfor economy of packaging.

Referring to FIG. 110, another embodiment 8510 of an accessory module ofthe present invention is illustrated. Accessory module 8510 comprises acamera module, which is especially suitable for mounting exteriorly of avehicle, such as at, near, or on a bumper. Accessory module 8510 isparticularly suitable for a rear vision or reverse aid system such asdescribed in reference to the previous embodiments.

Camera module 8510 includes a base plate 8512 and a cover 8514. Cover8514 may be formed from a single molding operation and formed from aclear, frosted, or even colored material, such as plastic. In theillustrated embodiment, cover 8514 is a dome-shaped cover with a lens8516 provided or formed therein, such as by molding, through whichcamera 8518, which is positioned inside cover 8514, captures images.

Referring to FIGS. 112 and 113, base plate 8512 includes a plurality ofupwardly extending connectors 8520, such as flexible fingers or flangeswith, for example, cam structures or surfaces 8522, which engagecorresponding receiving structures provided on cover 8514 to provide asnap-fit connection or coupling between base plate 8512 and cover 8514.Optionally positioned between cover 8514 and base plate 8512 is a seal8524, such as a gasket, so that accessory module 8510 is a substantiallywaterproof and dust proof module.

Referring to FIG. 113, camera 8518 is secured to base plate 8512 by acamera support 8516. In the illustrated embodiment, camera support 8526comprises a generally U-shaped frame which cooperates with upstandingflanges 8528 provided on base plate 8512, such as by a snap-fitconnection, heatstaking, or welding or the like. In addition, base plate8512 may include positioning and/or guiding structures 8530 to provideadditional support and guides for the placement of camera 8518 on baseplate 8512. Referring again to FIG. 112, camera 8518 includes wiring orcable 8532 for connection to the vehicle electrical system. Cable 8532extends through an opening 8534 provided in base plate 8512. Optionally,a grommet (not shown) may be provided in opening 8534 to substantiallyseal opening 8534. When positioned on and secured to base plate 8512,the lens 8536 of camera 8518 is positioned such that is aligns with lens8516 of cover 8514.

Referring to FIGS. 114 and 115, base plate 8512 includes engagementstructures 8540 for engaging corresponding structures on an adapter ormounting plate 8542. In the illustrated embodiment, engagementstructures 8540 include a pair of rails 8540 a and 8540 b and aplurality of rib structures 8540 c. Rails 8540 a and 8540 b slide intocorresponding grooves 8542 a and 8542 b of mounting plate 8542. Rails8540 a and 8549 b include retaining flanges 8540 a′ and 8540 b′ whichrestrain base plate 8512 from separating from mounting plate 8542 whenribs 8540 a and 8540 b are engaged in grooves 8542 a and 8542 b. Ribs8540 c cooperate with a corresponding structure 8542 c, such one or moreribs, on mounting plate 8542 to form a releasable ratchet-typeconnection with mounting plate 8542 so that base plate 8512 isreleasably restrained from sliding off mounting plate 8542. In thismanner, engagement structures 8540 provide lateral and verticalrestraint of base plate 8512 on mounting plate 8542 when engagementstructures 8540 cooperate with mounting plate 8542. In order toaccommodate wires or cabling 8532, mounting plate 8542 includes a cutout8544 so that accessory module 8510 may be substantially flush mounted onmounting plate 8542. Although in the illustrated embodiment, mountingplate 8542 includes transverse grooves 8542 a which extend from theupper surface of the mounting plate to the lower surface of the mountingplate, it should be understood that grooves 8542 a and 8542 b may beonly partially extended into mounting plate 8542.

Optionally, mounting plate 8542 may be mounted to the vehicle by anadhesive, fasteners, or the like, which either permit substantiallypermanent mounting or may provide a removable mounting of mounting plate8542 to the vehicle. In addition, mounting plate 8542 may accommodateshim plates or the like either between mounting plate 8542 and baseplate 8512 or between mounting plate 8542 and the body of the vehicle inorder to provide adjustment of the angle of the camera. For example, awedge-shaped shim plate may be incorporated into the accessory module8510 which incorporates a pair of grooves for receiving rails or guides8540 a and 8540 b and a corresponding set of rails for engaging withgrooves 8542 a and 8542 b of mounting plate 8542 to thereby provide anintermediate mounting element that can be removed entirely or removedfor replacement with another shim plate. For example, reverse aidcameras are often positioned for viewing just to the rear of thevehicle, for example, at the area immediately rear of the vehicle.However, in some applications, such as when towing a trailer it isdesirable to adjust the angle of the camera so that the trailer can beviewed by the camera, for example for viewing the trailer hitch. Thus,an adapter may be provided to adjust the angle from the more downwardlydirected viewing position, typically associated with rear visionsystems, to a more horizontal viewing position for viewing, for examplethe trailer or the trailer hitch. These adapters may be built in or maybe provided as an optional feature. It can be appreciated from theforegoing, that accessory module 8510 is an integrated sub-assemblywhich is easy to manufacture and, furthermore, easy to customize. Inaddition, camera module 8510 may be easily mounted or de-mounted forrepair, replacement, upgrade, or just removal for storage.

Referring to FIG. 116, the numeral 8610 generally designates anotherembodiment of an accessory module of the present invention. Accessorymodule 8610 comprises a camera module which includes a base plate 8612and a cover 8614 (FIG. 118), similar to the previous embodiment. Baseplate 8612 includes upwardly extending mounting flanges 8622 forreleasably coupling cover 8614, such as by a snap-fit connection, tobase plate 8612. Supported on base plate 8612 is a camera unit 8618(FIG. 119). Camera module 8610 is particularly suitable for an interiorapplication, such as for a baby minder system, such as the vehicleinterior monitoring system described in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,877,897 and5,760,962. An interior surveillance system permits the driver of thevehicle to observe behavior or the activities of babies or children orother passengers seated in the rear seat. This is especiallyadvantageous when the child or baby is in a rearward facing car seat,where the child or baby would ordinarily not be visible to the driverwhile driving. For example, a camera, such as a CMOS or CCD camera, canbe mounted to view the rear seat area of the vehicle so that the drivercan view what is occurring, such as in a rear seat mounted baby seat orwith a rear seat passenger such as children. Preferably, to enableviewing of the rear seat occupant or occupants even by night, the targetfield of view of the camera may be illuminated, as will be more fullydescribed below, in a manner that provides adequate visibility for thecamera to discern what is occurring in the rear seat in a darkenedvehicle cabin but not illuminating in a manner that causes glare,distraction, and/or discomfort to any vehicle occupants, including thedriver and/or rear seat passengers.

Camera 8618 is mounted to base plate 8612 by a camera support 8620,which comprises a generally U-shaped frame which secures to upwardlyextending support mounts 8628 provided on base plate 8612, for exampleby a snap-fit connection, heatstaking, welding or the like. Similar tothe previous embodiment, mounting plate 8612 includes positioning orguide structures, such as upwardly extending flanges 8630, which areformed on or provided on base plate 8612 to thereby provide furthersupport and properly position camera 8618 on mounting plate 8612. Whencamera 8618 is positioned on mounting plate 8612, the lens 8636 alignswith opening 8614 a of cover 8614 so that camera 8618 can capture imagestherethrough.

Optionally, module 8610 includes a filter 8640. Filter 8640 preferablycomprises an infrared (IR) filter. In the illustrated embodiment, filter8640 is mounted for movement between a first position (FIG. 116) inwhich it is aligned over opening 8614 a, suitable for bright lightconditions, and a second position (FIG. 117) in which the filter ismoved out of alignment with opening 8614 a, which is suitable for lowlight conditions. In this manner, the amount of light entering lens 8636of camera 8618 can be regulated.

In the illustrated embodiment, filter 8640 is mounted on a paddle 8642,which is pivotally mounted in housing 8611. For example, paddle 8642 maybe pivotally mounted to cover 8614 and is moveable between its firstposition (FIG. 116) and its second position (FIG. 117) by a knob 8644,which is similarly mounted to cover 8614. Optionally associated withknob 8644 are indicia 8644 a and 8644 b which, for example, maydesignate a high or bright light condition and a low light condition,such as by the use of a sun or moon as shown in the illustratedembodiment.

In addition, module 8610 may include a plurality of light sources 8648,such as LED's which are mounted on a circuit board 8650. Light sourcesare particularly useful for illuminating the interior of the vehicle inlow or very low light conditions and are preferably aligned so as toemit light coaxial with the view of the camera 8618. For example, lightsources 8648 may comprise directed low level non-incandescent lightsources, such as light emitting diodes (LEDs), organic light emittingmaterial, electroluminescent sources (both organic and inorganic), andthe like. Most preferably, such non-incandescent sources are low powerand are directed low intensity sources, such as described in U.S. Pat.Nos. 5,938,321 and 6,139,172 and application Ser. No. 09/626,608, filedJul. 27, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,412,973, which are incorporatedherein by reference in their entireties. The camera may be mounted as apart of the rearview mirror assembly and, most preferably, may bemounted as a part of a roof area of the interior vehicle cabin such as aheader, including a front header of a roof or a rear header or a headerconsole of a roof. It may be desirable to mount the camera to the rearheader of a roof when it is desirable to view rear facing child supportseats.

Preferably, a plurality of at least two and more preferably at leastfour LEDs (or similar low level, directed, low-current light sourcessuch as electroluminescent sources and organic light emitting sources)are mounted in module 8610 (preferably, such as to form a ring aroundthe camera) with the light projected from the individual LEDs directedto be coincident with the camera field of view and to illuminate thetarget area desired to be viewed as noted above. The LEDs being directedlow level sources will not glare or cause discomfort to occupants whenilluminated. Further, camera illumination sources can be illuminatedwhenever the ignition switch is on to operate the vehicle or at leastwhen the ignition switch is placed in an “accessory on” position so thatboth the camera and illumination lights are operating on vehicle batterypower even when parked. Alternately, the illumination lights can beoperational only when the baby minder camera is selected to beoperational. While it is preferred to use non-incandescent lights,incandescent light sources can be used, most preferably high intensity,low current incandescent light sources. For example, when the camera isactivated to view the rear seat or to view a baby seat or the like, thedome light in the vehicle, which typically comprises an incandescentlight source, can illuminate so that the rear seat area is illuminatedto assist visibility for the camera. A circuit or other device can beprovided that illuminates the dome light (or a similar rearseat-illuminating interior light source such as a rail lamp or the like)whenever the camera is selected to view the rear seat. Optionally, thedome light or similar interior light within the interior cabin, oncecaused to illuminate when the camera is activated, can cease toilluminate after a determined time interval (such as 5 seconds or tenseconds or longer) under the control of a timeout circuit or device. Byproviding a timeout, the driver can selectively view the status ofpassengers in the rear seat of the vehicle by selecting a baby-mindercamera or similar rear seat viewing function (such as by voice command,user-operated switch or the like). Upon selection of the camerafunction, whatever is being viewed on the video screen in the vehiclemay be interrupted (or superimposed over or the like), the interiorlight in the cabin (such as the dome light) will illuminate, a timeoutwill initiate, and the driver (or other front-seat occupant) can viewthe rear seat status for the duration of the timeout. Once the timeoutelapses, the interior light ceases to illuminate, and preferably, thecamera ceases to be activated and the video screen reverts to itspre-event status.

In the illustrated embodiment, circuit board 8650 is mounted to supportmounts 8628 in grooved receptacles 8628 a. In addition, circuit board8650 includes a central opening 8652 through which lens 8636 of camera8618 projects. Light sources 8648 align with corresponding openings 8654provided in cover 8614 and are preferably selectively actuated, as notedabove, to provide a lighted area within the vehicle so that the camera8618 may capture images even in low light conditions including at nighttime.

Similar to the previous embodiment, base plate 8612 includes atransverse opening 8656 through which wiring or cabling 8658 of camera8618 extends for coupling to the vehicle electrical system. Optionally,opening 8656 may include a grommet to seal opening 8656. Similar to theprevious embodiment, cover 8614 may include lenses formed at thelocations designated by openings 8614 a and 8654 to substantially sealcamera module 8610, for example from dust or other debris or the like.

Referring to FIG. 123, the numeral 8700 generally designates anotherembodiment of an accessory module/mirror system of the presentinvention. Accessory module/mirror system 8700 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 8710 and an accessory module 8712. Similar tothe previous embodiments, interior rearview mirror assembly 8710includes a mirror casing 8714 and a reflective element 8716 which issupported in housing 8714. In the illustrated embodiment, reflectiveelement 8716 comprises an electrochromic reflective element, such aspreviously described in reference to the previous embodiments; however,it can be appreciated that reflective element 8716 may comprise aprismatic reflective element.

Casing 8714 includes an enlarged eyebrow area 8718 which provides alocation for one or more accessories, such as lights 8720 a and 8720 b,including LED's, and 8720 b and switches 8722 a, 8722 b, such as toggleswitches. Lights 8720 a, 8720 b may provide interior lighting, such asreading lights, map lights, console lights, or lighting for an interiorsurveillance system (such as referenced above) and preferably comprisehigh intensity lights, such as high intensity LEDs described below.Switches 8722 a and 8722 b are positioned in an elongate depression 8722formed in chin 8718. It should be understood, the eyebrow area 8718 mayincorporate other accessories including displays for displaying vehiclestatus information, such as tire pressure status, fuel levels, cabintemperatures, or the like, and/or information relating to environmentalconditions, such as temperature or compass headings. Mirror casing 8714may also incorporate, including at eyebrow area 8718 or the china area,lighted buttons, sensors, such as temperature sensors, compass sensors,light sensors, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,886, which isincorporated by reference in its entirety. Also, as noted and describedin reference to the previous embodiments, mirror casing 8714 mayincorporate antennas, including global positioning system (GPS) orcellular phone antennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,552, acommunication module, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,688,blind spot detection systems, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,929,786 or 5,786,772, transmitters and/or receivers, such as garagedoor openers, a digital network, such as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,798,575, a high/low head lamp controller, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,715,093, a memory mirror system, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,796,176, a hands-free phone attachment, a video device forinternal cabin surveillance and/or video telephone function, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and 5,877,897, map lights, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,321; 5,813,745; 5,820,245; 5,673,994;5,649,756; or 5,178,448, microphones, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,201,642, Ser. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,278,377, and Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,717,610, speakers, a compass, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,924,212, seat occupancy detector, a trip computer, an ONSTAR System orthe like, with all of the referenced patents and applications commonlyassigned, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated by referencein their entireties.

In the illustrated embodiment, supported in casing 8714 is an electronictoll card module 8724, which includes a card reader that is accessiblethrough an opening 8714 a provided in a bottom wall 8714 b of mirrorcasing 8714. In this manner, an electronic toll card or smart card 8726may be inserted into the electronic control module through the undersideof the mirror casing. In order to accommodate the vertical height ofelectronic toll card module 8724 in casing 8714, casing 8714 includes anextended portion 8714 c, which in the illustrated embodiment, projectsupwardly behind header 8762 so that the extension of mirror casing 8714does not distract the driver or detract from the aesthetic appearance ofmirror casing 8714.

Referring to FIG. 124, electronic toll card module 8724 is positionedbehind the various electronics 8728 housed in mirror casing 8714. Forexample, casing 8714 preferably includes a circuit board 8730 on whichthe control circuitry for the reflective element 8716 is mounted. Inaddition, circuit board 8730 may support components or circuitry forcomponents, such as a remote keyless entry system 8732, such as aHOMELINK® system, a garage door opener, a remote transaction system,telephones, lights, such as map lights, or the like. In addition,circuit board 8730 may support a dimmer switch 8734 or circuitry for adimmer switch, for adjusting the brightness of displays incorporated inmirror system 8700, such as display 8721 described below.

In the illustrated embodiment, mirror casing 8714 includes a display8721, such as a liquid crystal display (LCD), which is located inreflective element 8716. Display 8721 may display information, such asvehicle status information, including tire pressure, fuel gage levels,compass headings, or the like. In preferred form, display 8721 displaysinformation relating to the electronic transaction of electronic tollcard module 8724. For example, display 8721 may be used to displayinformation relating to the toll transaction and may provideinformation, such as the balance on the electronic toll card and/or theamount of the payment made in the transaction or the like. Display 7821may perform a single display function or multiple display functions,such as providing indication of a vehicle function or functions, forexample a compass mirror display function, a temperature displayfunction, a tire pressure/status display function, a status of inflationof tires display function, computer display including e-mails andINTERNET access, a passenger air bag disabled display function, anautomatic rain sensor operation display function, telephone dialinformation display function, highway status information displayfunction, blind spot indicator display function, or the like. Suchdisplays may be an alpha-numeric display or a multi-pixel display, andmay be fixed or scrolling. In addition, display 8721 may comprise anincandescent display, vacuum fluorescent display, electroluminescentdisplay, light emitting diode display, cathode ray tube display, fieldemission display, E-ink display, or organic emitting polymer display orthe like. Examples of displays may be found in application Ser. No.09/244,726, filed Feb. 5, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,172,613, or U.S.Pat. No. 5,530,240, and U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/433,467,filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,326,613, commonly assigned,which are herein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

As best seen in FIG. 124, module 8712 incorporates a mounting bracket8736, which mounts to a mirror mounting button 8738, which is mounted,such as by an adhesive, to the inner surface 8740 of windshield 8742.Preferably, bracket 8736 mounts to mirror mount 8738 with a break-awayconnection, such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,820,097; 5,615,857;5,330,149; 5,100,095; or 4,936,533; the disclosures of which areincorporated by reference herein in their entireties. In addition,bracket 8736 includes a ball mount 8744 on which casing 8714 of interiorrearview mirror assembly 8710 is pivotally mounted to permitrepositioning of casing 8714 and, in turn, reflective element 8716. Itshould be understood that interior rearview mirror assembly 8710 may bemounted with a single ball mount arrangement, as illustrated, or usingother mounting arrangements such as a dual-ball mount support, such aspreviously described, and further may be mounted using plastic ballmounts, such as disclosed in U.S. provisional patent application Ser.No. 60/257,477, filed Dec. 21, 2000, or the large ball mount, such asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/470,791, filed Dec. 23,1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,540,193, the entire disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 8712 houses a rainsensor module 8750, which is used to detect moisture on the outersurface 8752 of windshield 8742. For windshield contacting rain sensorsreference is made to U.S. Pat. No. 4,973,844 or PCT InternationalApplication PCT/US94/05093, published as WO 94/27262 on Nov. 24, 1994,for non-windshield contacting rain sensors, the disclosures of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein in their entireties.

Furthermore, module 8712 may incorporate a light 8754, which may be usedas an indicator or a driver warning alert and is positioned at thelower-most portion 8756 of module housing 8712 a. In this manner, light8754 is positioned below lower wall 8714 b of mirror casing 8714 so thatlight 8754 is viewable by the driver or other passengers of the vehicleregardless of the position of mirror casing 8714. In addition, light8754 is viewable exteriorly of the vehicle. Accessory module 8712 mayalso incorporate numerous other accessories, such as those described inreference to interior mirror assembly 8710, including a video in-carsystem (VICS) 8753, such as described in U.S. patent application Ser.No. 09/449,121, filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,428,172, andSer. No. 09/585,379, filed Jun. 1, 2000, the disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference in their entireties.

In order to power these various accessories and components, bracket 8736includes a transverse path 8736 a, which passes through ball mount 8744to permit the wiring to extend from the accessories, such as circuitboard 8730, to accessory module 8712 so that they may be optionallyharnessed with the wiring from the various other components housed inmodule 8712, such as rain sensor module 8750 and VICS 8753, whichtogether exit through housing 8712 a of accessory module 8712 through ahousing 8760. Housing 8760 may comprise a flexible housing, such as aflexible hose, that directs the wiring into the ceiling header 8762,which in turn directs the wiring to couple to the vehicle electricalsystem.

Again referring to FIG. 123, header 8762 may include accessories, suchas buttons 8764 a and 8764 b and a light 8766, which is optionallyactuated by one of the buttons 8764 a or 8764 b. In addition, header7862 may incorporate one or more of the accessories described inreference to the previous embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 125, another embodiment 8800 of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 8800 includes an interior mirror assembly 8810 andan accessory module 8812. Accessory module 8812 is of similarconstruction to accessory module 8712 and, therefore, reference is madeto the previous embodiment for further details.

Similar to the previous embodiment, interior rearview mirror assembly8810 includes an electronic toll card module 8824 incorporated intocasing 8814 of interior rearview mirror assembly 8810. In theillustrated embodiment, electronic toll card module 8824 is mounted incasing 8814 in a holster 8825 which permits the electronic toll cardmodule (8824) to move between a retracted position within casing 8814and an extended position for receiving an electronic toll card 8826. Forexample, holster 8825 pivotally mounts module 8824 in mirror casing 8814so that it pivots through an opening 8814 a formed in lower wall 8814 bof mirror casing 8814.

By mounting accessory module 8824 in holster 8825, module 8824 may beoriented such that its longer dimension is generally oriented in ahorizontal direction, thus eliminating the need to provide an extendedportion for mirror casing 8814. Furthermore, when pivoted to its home orstored position, in which module 8824 is fully enclosed in casing 8814,the electronic toll card 8826 would be generally unobservable to personsboth inside the vehicle and outside of the vehicle. In this manner, thedriver of the vehicle may optionally leave the electronic toll card inthe vehicle.

Referring to FIG. 127, another embodiment 8900 of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 8900 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly8910 and an accessory module 8912. Interior rearview mirror assembly8910 is of similar construction to the previous embodiment and includesa mirror casing 8914 and a reflective element 8916. Mirror casing 8914includes an enlarged eyebrow area 8918, which includes a pair of lights8920 a and 8920 b, such as LEDs, and a pair of switches 8922, such astoggle switches. Switches 8922 are aligned along a common axis and arepositioned between lights 8920 a and 8920 b. As noted above, lights 8920a, 8920 b may provide interior lighting, such as reading lights, maplights, console lights, or lighting for an interior surveillance system(such as referenced above) and preferably comprise high intensitylights, such as high intensity LEDs described below. As will be morefully described below, interior rearview mirror assembly 8910incorporates an electronic toll card module 8924 with a card readeraccess to which is provided through an opening 8914 a in bottom wall8914 b of mirror casing 8914 so that electronic toll card 8926 can beinserted into the card reader of module 8924 through opening 8914 a.

Referring to FIG. 128, module 8924 is mounted in casing 8914 similar tomodule 8824. However, electronic toll card module 8924 includes cardreader which is oriented along the module's lower horizontal edge suchthat electronic toll card 8926 can be inserted sideways through opening8914 a. For further details of the components and accessories that maybe housed in mirror casing 8914 or module 8912, reference is made tointerior rearview mirror assembly 8710 and to the other embodiments.

Referring again to FIG. 128, accessory module 8912 includes an elongatehousing 8912 a that incorporates a mounting bracket 8936 on which mirrorcasing 8914 is mounted. Mounting bracket 8936 preferably includes a ballmount 8944 on which mirror casing 8914 is pivotally mounted and,further, through which electrical wiring 8945 extends for coupling tothe vehicle electrical system along with wiring from the variousaccessories incorporated into module housing 8912 a, such as rain sensor8950, vehicle in-camera system 8953 and light 8954. As described inreference to module 8712, light 8954 may be used as an indicator orwarning light and may be provided by an LED, or other suitable lightsources.

In the illustrated embodiment, bracket 8936 is provided at an upperportion 8957 of housing 8912 a, with upper portion 8957 extended up tobut spaced from ceiling header 8962 so that the driver of the vehiclecannot readily view the upper portion of the accessory module housing8912 a. In addition, bracket 8936 is similarly preferably mounted to amirror mounting button 8938 which is mounted to the inner surface 8940of windshield 8942 similar to mirror mount button 8738. Preferably, thewiring from the respective components and accessories located inaccessory module 8912 and mirror casing 8914 pass through a flexible andoptionally extendable wire housing 8960, such as a flexible andextendable hose. For further details of optional components that may beincorporated into ceiling header 8962, reference is made to accessorymodule/mirror system 8700.

Referring to FIG. 129, another embodiment 9000 of the accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 9000 includes an interior mirror housing 9010 andaccessory module 9012, which is of similar construction to accessorymodule 8912. Therefore, reference is made to the previous embodiment forfurther details of accessory module 9012 and also for the variousaccessories and components which may be incorporated into module 9012 orinterior rearview mirror assembly 9010

In the illustrated embodiment, mirror assembly 9010 includes a mirrorcasing 9014 which is adapted to receive an ETC card 9026 through anopening 9014 a provided in end wall 9014 b of mirror casing 9014.Depending on the application, the opening may be provided in the leftend wall, as illustrated, or in the right end wall 9014 c, as will beunderstood by those skilled in the art.

Referring to FIG. 130, electronic toll card module 9024 is positioned inmirror casing 9014 similar to electronic toll card module 9024 but withits card reader portion 9024 a generally aligned with opening 9014 a.Similar to the previous embodiments, electronic toll card module 9024 ispositioned behind reflective element 9016 and circuit board 9030, whichsupports circuitry, for example for reflective element 9016, and adimmer switch 9034. In the illustrated embodiment, casing 9014 furtherhouses a remote keyless entry system 9032, which is separately mountedfrom circuit board 9030 and is independently mounted from circuit board9030. It can be appreciated that the location of the various accessoriesmay be varied as need to accommodate the positioning of the electronictoll card module 9024 in casing 9014.

Referring to FIGS. 131 and 132, the numeral 9100 designates anotherembodiment of the accessory module/mirror system of the presentinvention. Accessory module/mirror system 9100 includes interiorrearview mirror assembly 9110 and an accessory module 9112. Interiorrearview mirror assembly 9110 includes a mirror casing 9114 andreflective element 9116 supported in casing 9114. In preferred form,reflective element 9116 comprises an electrochromic reflective element,which is controlled by circuitry provided on circuit board 9130, whichis housed in casing 9114 behind reflective element 9116. Similar to theprevious embodiments, interior rearview mirror assembly 9110 ispivotally mounted to accessory module 9112 on ball mount 9144 of abracket 9136, which is incorporated into module 9112. In preferred form,bracket 9136 mounts to a mounting button 9138 with a break-awayconnection.

Mirror casing 9114 may support a plurality of accessories, such as aremote keyless entry system 9132, sensors 9135, such as compass sensors,temperature sensors, light sensors, which detect the lighting conditionsin the vehicle to adjust the reflectivity of reflective element 9116,such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 6,124,886, which is incorporated byreference herein in its entirety. Reference is made to the previousembodiment for other accessories that may be incorporated into mirrorcasing 9114 or module 9112.

As best seen in FIG. 132, accessory module 9112 includes a modulehousing 9112 a, which houses a plurality of accessories, such as a rainsensor module 9150, a vehicle in-camera system 9153 and, further, anelectronic toll card module 9124. Electronic toll card module 9124 ispositioned in an upper portion 9157 of housing 9112 a and is orientedsuch that its card reader is aligned with an opening 9157 a. In thismanner, the card reader is positioned above upper wall 9114 d of mirrorcasing 9114 so that an electronic toll card (not shown) may be insertedabove mirror casing 9114 into electronic toll card module 9124.Optionally and preferably, upper portion 9157 of module housing 9112 aincludes one or more toggle switches 9122 and a light source 9120, suchas an LED.

Again referring to FIG. 132, upper portion 9157 preferably abuts ceilingheader 9162 which optionally houses a plurality of accessories, such asbuttons 9164 and a light 9166, such as a map light, console light or thelike, which may be actuated by one of the buttons (9164). In preferredform, light 9166 comprises a high intensity LED such as described below.In this manner, accessory module 9112 effectively provides acontinuation or extension of ceiling header 9162 to provide increasedstorage space for various components which may be desirable in mirrorsystem 9100.

Similar to the previous embodiments, wiring for the various componentsin mirror casing 9114 extends through ball mount 9144. Optionally thewiring from mirror casing 9114 may be harnessed with the wiring from thevarious other components housed in accessory module 9112 and extendedthrough housing 9112 a and into header 9162 to harness with the wiringof the various components housed in ceiling header 9162 for coupling tothe vehicle electrical system.

Referring to FIGS. 133 and 134, the numeral 9200 generally designatesanother embodiment of the accessory module/mirror system of the presentinvention. Accessory module/mirror system 9200 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 9210 and accessory module 9212. Interiorrearview mirror assembly 9210 is of similar construction to interiorrearview mirror assembly 9110 with the addition of an enlarged eyebrowarea 9218, which includes, for example, a pair of lights 9220, such asLEDs, and a pair of switches 9222, similar to interior rearview mirrorassembly 8710.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 9212 includes anelectronic toll card module 9224, which is positioned in a lower portion9256 of housing 9212 a and, further, is aligned with an opening 9212 bprovided in lower wall 9212 c of housing 9212 a. In this manner, anelectronic toll card 9226 may be inserted into electronic toll cardmodule 9224 below and rearward of mirror casing 9214. Lower portion 9256of housing 9212 a optionally includes a light 9254 similar to light8754, which may provide an indicator light or warning light. Inpreferred form, light 9254 comprises an LED, such as described below.

Similar to the previous embodiments, module 9212 incorporates a mountingbracket 9236, which includes a ball mount 9244 on which mirror casing9214 is pivotally mounted and a channel portion 9246 which engages amirror mounting button 9238 to provide a break-away connection foraccessory module 9212 and interior rearview mirror assembly 9210.Housing 9212 a of module 9212 further includes an extended portion 9257which extends beyond bracket 9246 to provide further space for housingaccessories, such as a vehicle in-camera system 9253. As noted inreference to the previous embodiments, accessory module 9212 mayincorporate a number of accessories, including a rain sensor module9250, antennas, including global positioning system (GPS) or cellularphone antennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,971,552, acommunication module, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,688,blind spot detection systems, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,929,786 or 5,786,772, transmitters and/or receivers, such as garagedoor openers, a digital network, such as described in U.S. Pat. No.5,798,575, a high/low head lamp controller, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,715,093, a memory mirror system, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,796,176, a hands-free phone attachment, a video device forinternal cabin surveillance and/or video telephone function, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and 5,877,897, map lights, such asdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,938,321; 5,813,745; 5,820,245; 5,673,994;5,649,756; or 5,178,448, microphones, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,201,642, Ser. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,278,377, and Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,717,610, speakers, a compass, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,924,212, seat occupancy detector, a trip computer, an ONSTAR® Systemor the like, with all of the referenced patents and applicationscommonly assigned, the disclosures of which are herein incorporated byreference in their entireties. By moving the location of the electronictoll card module 9224 to the accessory module 9212, the inherent weightof interior rearview mirror assembly 9210 is reduced and, furthermore,provides for increased capacity within the interior rearview mirrorassembly 9210 should other accessories be desired.

Referring to FIGS. 137 and 138, the numeral 9300 generally designatesanother embodiment of an accessory module/mirror assembly of the presentinvention. Accessory module/mirror system 9300 includes an interiorrearview mirror assembly 9310 and accessory module 9312. Interiorrearview mirror assembly 9310 is of similar construction to interiorrearview mirror assembly 9110; therefore, reference is made to theprevious embodiment for further details.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 9312 also provides anextension of a ceiling header 9362 to provide an increased storagecapacity for various accessories to be housed in mirror system 9300without detracting from the aesthetic appearance of the mirror assembly9310. In addition, module 9312 is substantially concealed by the mirrorassembly casing 9314 of interior rearview mirror assembly 9310 and,further, by header 9362 with only a lower portion 9356 and an upperportion 9357 of module 9312 viewable by the driver of the vehicle.Similar to the previous embodiment, accessory module 9312 houses aplurality of components, such as a rain sensor module 9350, a vehiclein-camera system 9353, an electronic toll card reader 9324 a, andelectronic toll card antennae 9324 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, card reader 9324 a is angled and alignedwith an opening 9312 b of module housing 9312 a, which is behind mirrorcasing 9314 and, therefore, generally not viewable by the driver of thevehicle unless the mirror casing 9314 is pivoted upward. In this manner,electronic toll card 9326 may be inserted into electronic toll cardreader 9324 a underneath casing 9314. In the illustrated embodiment,electronic toll card reader 9324 a is angled approximately at a 45°angle; however, it can be appreciated that electronic toll card reader9324 a may be oriented in a variety of different angular orientations.Electronic control card antennae 9324 b are positioned in upper portion9357 of module housing 9312 a but are coupled to card reader 9324 a bywiring that extends through module housing 9312 a.

Mirror system 9300 includes a display 9321 on upper portion 9357 ofmodule 9312. Display 9321 may comprise a liquid crystal display or anincandescent display, vacuum fluorescent display, electroluminescentdisplay, light emitting diode display, cathode ray tube display, fieldemission display, E-ink display, or organic emitting polymer display orthe like. Examples of displays are described above. Upper portion 9357also optionally includes switches 9322, such as toggle switches, and alight 9320, such as an LED light. Switches 9322 may be used to selectthe information shown on display 9321. As described in reference to theprevious embodiments, display 9321 may display information relating tothe electronic toll card transaction, other transactions, and/orinformation relating to vehicle status or the like.

Referring to FIG. 139, another embodiment 9400 of an accessorymodule/mirror system is illustrated. Accessory module/mirror system 9400includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 9410 and an accessorymodule 9412. Interior rearview mirror assembly 9410 is of similarconstruction to interior rearview mirror assembly 9310 and, therefore,reference is made to the description of the previous embodiments forfurther details.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 9412 incorporates anelectronic toll card module 9424, which includes both a card reader andan antenna. Module 9424 is positioned in a lower portion 9456 of modulehousing 9412 a and, further, is positioned such that its card reader isaligned with an opening 9412 b provided in lower wall 9412 c of modulehousing 9412 a. Lower portion 9456 is extended below mirror casing 9414and, further, includes a light 9454 which is viewable by the driver orother occupants of the vehicle. Light 9454 forms an indicator or adriver warning alarm, and preferably comprises an LED. Upper portion9457 extends up to and optionally abuts ceiling header 9462 to providean extension of header 9462, thereby increasing the storage space forholding one or more accessories, including a pair of switches 9422 and adisplay 9421, which may be used to display information relating to theelectronic toll card transaction, vehicle status information, includingcompass headings, information relating to the environment within thevehicle or exteriorly of the vehicle. In the illustrated embodiment,display 9421 comprises an LCD display which provides informationrelating to the electronic toll card transaction. In addition, accessorymodule 9412 may include a dimmer switch 9434, for adjusting thebrightness level of display 9421. Similar to accessory module 9112,upper portion 9457 is aligned between ceiling header 9462 and the upperportion of eyebrow 9418 of mirror casing 9414.

As best understood from FIG. 137, electronic toll card 9426 is insertedvertically from underneath interior rearview mirror assembly 9410 and,further, rearward from casing 9414. It should be understood from theforegoing that by closely locating accessories that require interactionby the driver above and below interior rearview mirror assembly 9410 butin close proximity to casing 9414, the driver of the vehicle may engagein a number of activities, with minimal distraction. Moreover, aspreviously noted in reference to the previous embodiments, the interiorrearview mirror assembly 9410 is positioned in a known location suchthat the interaction with these various accessories is almost, if notcompletely, automatic. For examples of other accessories that may beincorporated into interior rearview mirror assembly 9410 or module 9412reference is made to the previous embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 139, another embodiment of an accessory module/mirrorsystem of the present invention is illustrated. Mirror system 9500includes an interior mirror housing 9510 and an accessory module 9512.Interior rearview mirror assembly 9510 includes a mirror casing 9514 anda reflective element 9516 which is housed and supported in casing 9514.Mirror assembly 9510 further includes a pair of light assemblies 9520 aand 9520 b, such as disclosed in commonly owned U.S. Pat. Nos.6,042,253; 6,000,823 and 6,139,172, the entire disclosures of which areherein incorporated by reference. Accessory module 9512 may include oneor more accessories, such as a video or display screen 9521, switches,lights, such as map lights, consoles lights, lights for a camera for aninterior monitoring system, or the like. In order to provide sufficientlighting, the lights preferably comprise high intensity LEDS such asdescribed below. Buttons or switches may also be mounted to module 9512,such as on the rearward facing side or rearward facing side of themodule housing, which may be used to actuate various accessories orcomponents in mirror assembly 9510 or module 9512 or elsewhere in thevehicle. Other accessories that may be incorporated into module 9512 orassembly 9510 include antennas, including global positioning system(GPS) or cellular phone antennas, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,971,552, a communication module, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No.5,798,688, blind spot detection systems, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat.No. 5,929,786 or 5,786,772, transmitters and/or receivers, such asgarage door openers, including a HOMELINK® system, a digital network,such as described in U.S. Pat. No. 5,798,575, a high/low head lampcontroller, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,715,093, a memorymirror system, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,796,176, ahands-free phone attachment, a video device for internal cabinsurveillance and/or video telephone function, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. Nos. 5,760,962 and 5,877,897, map lights, such as disclosed in U.S.Pat. No. 5,938,321; 5,813,745; 5,820,245; 5,673,994; 5,649,756; or5,178,448, microphones, such as disclosed in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/361,814, filed Jul. 27, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,201,642,Ser. No. 09/396,179, filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,278,377,and Ser. No. 09/199,907, filed Nov. 25, 1998, now U.S. Pat. No.6,717,610, a tire pressure display or monitoring system, such asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/513,941, filed Feb. 28,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,294,989, and TIRE INFLATION ASSISTANCEMONITORING SYSTEM, filed Nov. 10, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,445,287,speakers, a compass, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 5,924,212, seatoccupancy detector, a trip computer, an ONSTAR® System or the like, withall of the referenced patents and applications commonly assigned, thedisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties. For further examples of other suitable accessories which canbe mounted in accessory module 9512 or assembly 9510, reference is madeto the previous embodiments.

Referring to FIG. 140, accessory module 9512 and interior rearviewmirror assembly 9510 are commonly supported on a mirror mount 9530,which provides a break-away connection to a mirror mounting buttonprovided on the interior surface of a windshield or provided on aheader. Accessory module 9512 and interior rearview mirror assembly 9510are independently mounted on mirror mount 9530 by support arms 9532 and9534, respectively. In the illustrated embodiment, support arms 9532 and9534 comprise dual-ball mount support arms, which provide for multi-axispositioning of the accessory module 9512 and interior rearview mirrorassembly 9510. In this manner, the accessory module and the mirrorcasing, and hence the reflective element, may be independently adjustedto suit the needs of the driver. In order to reduce the vibration(weight) of the accessory module/mirror system 9500, support arms 9532and 9534 may incorporate plastic ball mounts, such as disclosed in U.S.provisional patent application entitled REARVIEW MIRROR SUPPORTASSEMBLY, filed by Phillip A. March, Andrew D. Weller, and Timothy G.Skiver on Dec. 21, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 60/257,477, which reduces theweight, or the large ball mount, such as disclosed in U.S. patentapplication Ser. No. 09/470,791, filed Dec. 23, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No.6,540,193, which increases the stiffness of the connection, the entiredisclosures of which are herein incorporated by reference.

Referring to FIG. 141, another embodiment 9600 of an accessorymodule/mirror system is illustrated. Accessory module/mirror system 9600includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 9610 and accessory module9612, which are independently mounted on a mirror mount 9630, which isadapted to provide a break-away connection with a mirror mountingbutton, such as a mirror mounting button mounted on the interior of avehicle windshield or mounted on a header of a headliner. Interiorrearview mirror assembly 9610 includes a mirror casing 9614 andreflective element 9616, which is supported in casing 9614. Interiorrearview mirror assembly 9610 is mounted on mirror mount 9630 by adual-ball mount support arm 9634 similar to the previous embodiment. Inthe illustrated embodiment, accessory module 9612, which is also mountedon mirror mount 9630, is mounted by a telescoping arm 9632, whichpermits selective extension of accessory module 9612.

As best seen in FIGS. 141 and 142, accessory module 9612 is movablebetween a stored position (FIG. 141) and extended positions (FIG. 142).In the stored position (FIG. 141) at least a lower portion of housing9612 a of accessory module 9612 is viewable by the driver of thevehicle. However, it should be understood that accessory module 9612 maybe fully retracted behind casing 9614. In its extended position, housing9612 a is lowered below lower wall 9614 a of casing 9614 of mirrorassembly 9610. In this manner, the upper, rearward, and lower surfacesof housing 9612 a are viewable and accessible by the driver of thevehicle so that one or all these surfaces may be used to mountaccessories. As noted in reference to the previous embodiment, accessorymodule 9612 may incorporate a number of accessories, including adisplay, switches or buttons, lights, an electronic toll card moduleand/or electronic toll card reader. Other accessories which may beincorporated into accessory module 9612 or into interior rearview mirrorassembly 9610 include a garage door opener, or a tire pressuremonitoring system, such as disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,455,287, or inU.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/513,941, filed Feb. 28, 2000, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,294,989, the entire disclosures of which are hereinincorporated by reference. For a description of other accessories thatmay be incorporated into mirror assembly 9610 or module 9612 referenceis made to the previous embodiments. It should be understood that acombination of the ball mount and the telescoping arm may be used tomount the accessory module. For example, the support arm may include atelescoping portion and a single ball mount on either end or a doubleball mount.

Referring to FIG. 145, another embodiment of the accessory module 9612′is illustrated. Accessory module 9612′ includes a housing 9612 a′, whichincorporates one or more accessories, such as a display 9621′. In theillustrated embodiment, accessory module 9612′ is mounted to a compassmodule 9628′, such as disclosed in commonly assigned U.S. Pat. No.5,567,687, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety. Compassmodule 9628′ is adapted to mount to a mirror mount, such as mirror mount9530 or mirror mount 9630 and in the illustrated embodiment, andprovides a mounting surface 9628 a′ such as a ball member on whichaccessory module support arm 9632′ is mounted. In the illustratedembodiment, support arm 9632′ comprise a dual ball mount telescopingsupport which provides for a multi-axis positioning of housing 9612 a′and, further, extension of housing 9612 a′ from a stored position to aplurality of extended positions to accommodate the viewing needs of thedriver. Support 9632′ is preferably hollow in order to provide a passagefor the wires for the various components housed in accessory module9612′ so that the wires may be passed through compass module 9628′ andin turn passed through the mirror mount for coupling to the vehicleelectrical system. Compass module 9628′ further provides for mounting ofan interior rearview mirror assembly either by way of a transverseopening which permits direct mounting of the mirror assembly support armto the mirror mount (in which case compass module is mounted over themirror assembly mount (such as 9530 or 9630)) or by providing a mountingsurface, such as a ball mount, on which the support arm for the mirrorassembly can be mounted. In this manner, both the accessory module 9612′and the interior rearview mirror assembly would be commonly mounted tothe mirror mount or to the compass module and yet be independentlyadjustable.

Referring to FIG. 146, another embodiment 9612″ of the accessory moduleis illustrated. Similar to the previous embodiment, accessory module9612″ is mounted to a compass module 9628″. However, it should beunderstood that accessory module 9612″ may be similarly mounted directlyto a mirror mount, such as described in reference to accessorymodule/mirror systems 9500 and 9600.

In the illustrated embodiment, accessory module 9612″ includes a housing9612 a″ which supports one or more accessories, such as a display 9621″.Other accessories which may be incorporated into module 9612″ include agarage door opener, a tire pressure monitoring system, a remotetransaction system, a rain sensor module, an interior surveillancesystem, such as a baby-minder system, or the like. In the illustratedembodiment, housing 9612 a″ is mounted to compass module 9628″ by aswivel and pivot support 9632″. Support 9632″ mounts to compass module9628″ by a swivel connection 9632 a″, which is provided on one end ofsupport 9632″ and mounts to housing 9612 a″ by a second swivelconnection 9632 b″, which is provided at its opposed end. Furthermore,support 9632″ includes a pair of pivot connections 9632 c″ and 9632 d″to provide further adjustment of the orientation of housing 9612 a″ andin turn display 9621″. It should be understood that a telescopingportion may also be added to support 9632″ to provide multi-axisextension and contraction.

Referring to FIG. 147, 9700 generally designates another embodiment ofan accessory module 9712 of the present invention. Accessory module 9712includes an accessory module housing 9712 a, which in the illustratedembodiment supports a plurality of accessories. For example, mounted tothe rearward facing portion 9712 b of housing 9712 a is a display 9721and a light 9722 and, further, a lens 9724 of a camera, which ispositioned in housing 9712 a. The camera may be used to provide exterioror interior surveillance, such as for a reverse aide system or ababy-minder system or the like. Also mounted to housing 9712 a are apair of arms 9726 and 9728, which are hinged to housing 9712 a and,further, mounted in a manner such that when arms 9726, 9728 are foldedto their stored positions, arms 9726 and 9728 are positioned in recesses9730 and 9732 provided in housing 9712 a. In this manner, when arms 9726and 9728 are moved to their stored positions, arms 9726 and 9728 may beflush with the exterior surface of housing 9712 a. Arms 9726 and 9728may provide a mounting surface for displays 9726 a or lights 9728 a, ora connection for a device, including a peripheral device, such as atelephone, a computer, a fax machine, or the like.

In addition, accessory module 9712 may include a flip-down screen 9734,which displays information, or images captured by the surveillancecamera mounted in housing 9712 a. Flip-screen 9734 is similarlypreferably hinged to housing 9712 a such that when it is pivoted to itsstored position, flip-screen 9734 is recessed in a corresponding recessprovided in bottom wall 9712 c of housing 9712 a.

Accessory module 9712 may be mounted directly to an interior rearviewmirror assembly, an interior rearview mirror support, a mirror mount, ora header, or the like, as previously described in reference to theprevious embodiments, by a flex support 9742, which provides formulti-axis positioning of accessory module 9712. Flex support 9742 hassufficient stiffness to maintain the position of accessory module 9712and yet has the flexibility to allow repositioning of accessory module9712 with simple manual adjustment.

Also, as an alternate to having an accessory module (such as describedabove and herein) that attaches to or adjacent to a windshield-mounted(or header-mounted) interior mirror assembly, an accessory module can beincorporated as a portion of a header console or header/headlinerportion of the vehicle such that the accessory module (that can housethe accessories including displays, antennae and controllers such asdisclosed herein) can be an extension of the header that extends downfrom the header to the region, for example, where an interior mirrorassembly typically attaches to a windshield. Thus, and as illustrated inFIG. 148, an accessory module/mirror system 9800 of the presentinvention includes an interior rearview mirror assembly 9810 and aheader console 9812, which mounts to the headliner H of a roof portionof a vehicle. As will be more fully described below header console 9812includes an extension 9813 which extends down from headliner H along theinner surface of windshield W of the vehicle and extends behind mirrorassembly 9810 to provide ample space and mounting surfaces for one ormore vehicle accessories, such as described above. Header console 9812is particularly suitable for mounting vehicle systems, such as the tirepressure monitoring system described above, user actuatable devices,such as user actuatable buttons, displays, such as video displays, sothat the user actuatable devices and displays are at a locationaccessible or viewable by one or more occupants of the vehicle.

As shown in FIG. 149, a lower portion 9813 a of extension 9813 of headerconsole 9812, which extends downwardly behind the upper portion ofwindshield W (such portion of windshield W which typically includes ashadeband element as known in the art), includes a mirror mountingbutton 9836 on which mirror assembly 9810 detachably attaches to headerconsole 9812. Optionally, the downwardly extending portion ofheader/header console 9812 may be mounted to the inner surface ofwindshield W, such as by an adhesive or may be releasably, mechanicallyattached such as by being received by and/or supported by one or moreattaching members adhered to the inner surface of the windshield, suchas by attachment members, including rails, channels, or the like. Or,the downwardly extending portion of header/header console 9812 may bespaced or set-off from the inner surface. Or, the downwardly extendingportion of header/header console 9812 may contact or rest on innersurface of the windshield.

Desirably, wiring and/or cables which supply power and/or signals tocomponents in interior rearview mirror assembly 9810, includingcomponents in casing 9814, such as reflective element 9816, may becarried by header console 9812 and may pass through extension 9813 sothat the wires and/or cables are protected from damage and further arehidden from view for aesthetic reasons.

In the illustrated embodiment, interior rearview mirror 9810 includes acasing 9814, a reflective element 9816 which is supported in casing9814, and a support 9830. Reflective element 9816 preferably comprises avariable reflectance reflective element, such as a prismatic or anelectrochromic (EC) reflective element. Support 9830 comprises adual-ball mount type support of the type described in reference to theprevious embodiments, which provides for multi-axis repositioning ofcasing 9814 and, therefore, reflective element 9816 or may comprise asingle-ball support, as such are known in the rearview mirror art.Support 9830 includes a channel shaped mirror mount 9840 for releasablyengaging mounting button 9836 to form a break-away connection betweenmirror assembly 9810 and header console 9812.

As noted above, header console 9812 may support a plurality of vehicleaccessories, including for example an antenna 9822, including a globalpositioning system (GPS) antenna; a rain sensor, including a contactingand a non-contacting rain sensor; one or more cameras; lights;components of or an entire electronic toll collection (ETC) assembly;loud speakers and/or microphones, including for example a microphonearray, such as for a sound system (such as disclosed in co-assigned U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010 filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,420,975; Ser. No. 09/396,179 filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,278,377; Ser. No. 09/382,720 filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,243,003; Ser. No. 09/449,121 filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,428,172; Ser. No. 09/433,467 filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,326,613; and Ser. No. 09/448,700 filed Nov. 24, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925, the entire disclosures of all of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein); components of or an entirecellular phone system; components of or an entire telematic system,including a transceiver, an antenna, one or more user actuatabledevices, such as user actuatable buttons; pull down or flip displays,including video displays, such as described and reference previously;universal garage door opener systems, such as HOMELINK®; digital soundprocessing systems; a trip computer, seat occupancy detector; air bagactuation status display; sensors for compass headings or temperature; avehicle tire pressure monitoring controller 9823 (that preferablyincludes an RF receiving antenna, a microprocessor and all thecircuitry, user input controls/buttons and other controls needed toreceive and process wireless signals broadcast from the various tirepressure sensors located in the tire on the wheels of the vehicle), adisplay element 9845 for display information relating to, for examplethe tire pressure monitoring system, other vehicle status, includingcoolant temperature, fuel levels, or the like, and/or externalenvironmental status or information, such as outside temperature,compass headings or the like. In addition, accessory module/mirrorsystem 9800 may include a second display element 9846 for displayingother information, such as email messages, or for displaying images suchas images relating to interior surveillance systems, rearvision aidsystems, or teleconferencing images or the like.

As best seen in FIG. 148, displays 9845 and 9846 are positioned aboveand forwardly of mirror casing 9814 whereby the displays do notinterfere with or distract the driver and yet are accessible for easyviewing and are accessible for touching in the case of touch activateddisplay screens. Optionally, at least one of the displays screens ispositioned high enough within the vehicle cabin so that the images, suchas tire pressure indicators, may be viewable from outside the vehicle,including at the rear of the vehicle so that a person inflating a reartire could view the indications provided by the tire pressureindicators. In addition, display element 9845 may be provided in aseparate housing or module 9847 which can be removed for replacement,repair or upgrade.

In this manner, accessory module/mirror system 9800 can be removed as anassembly for repair, replacement, or upgrade with features removed oradded to either the mirror assembly 9810 or header console 9812 tothereby customize the accessory module/mirror system 9800 to suit theparticular needs of the vehicle customer. Furthermore, by extending theheader console downwardly and forward of the mirror assembly,significantly increased storage spaced is realized at the mirrormounting location but outside of casing 9814.

Referring to FIG. 149, another embodiment 9900 of an accessorymodule/mirror system of the present invention is illustrated. Accessorymodule/mirror system 9900 includes an interior rearview mirror assembly9910 and a header console 9912, which mounts to the headliner H of aroof portion of a vehicle, similar to the previous embodiment.

As will be more fully described below header console 9912 includes anextension 9913 which extends down from headliner H along the innersurface of windshield W of the vehicle and extends behind mirrorassembly 9910 to provide ample space and mounting surfaces for one ormore vehicle accessories, such as described in reference to the previousembodiments and the referenced applications. Header console 9912 isparticularly suitable for mounting vehicle systems, such as the tirepressure monitoring system described above, user actuatable devices,such as user actuatable buttons, displays, such as video displays, sothat the user actuatable devices and displays are at a locationaccessible or viewable by one or more occupants of the vehicle similarto the previous embodiment.

As best understood from FIG. 149, extension 9913 of header console 9912extends downwardly behind the upper portion of windshield W (suchportion of windshield W which typically includes a shadeband element asknown in the art) and includes a forked portion 9913 a, such as aninverted V-shaped or U-shaped portion, which straddles a mirror mountingbutton 9936 that is mounted to windshield W. Optionally, the downwardlyextending portion of header/header console 9912 may be mounted to theinner surface of windshield W, such as by an adhesive or may bereleasably, mechanically attached such as by being received by and/orsupported by one or more attaching members adhered to the inner surfaceof the windshield, such as by attachment members, including rails,channels, or the like. Or, the downwardly extending portion ofheader/header console 9912 may be spaced or set-off from the innersurface. Or, the downwardly extending portion of header/header console9912 may contact or rest on inner surface of the windshield. Similarly,wiring and/or cables which supply power and/or signals to components ininterior rearview mirror assembly 9910 may pass through extension 9913so that the wires and/or cables are protected from damage and furtherare hidden from view for aesthetic reasons.

Mirror mounting button 9936 provides a mount for mirror assembly 9910,which detachably attaches to mounting button 9936 by a channel shapedmirror mount 9940. In the illustrated embodiment, interior rearviewmirror 9910 includes a casing 9914, a reflective element 9916 which issupported in casing 9914, and a support 9930. Reflective element 9916preferably comprises a variable reflectance reflective element, such asa prismatic or an electrochromic (EC) reflective element. Support 9930comprises a dual-ball mount type support of the type described inreference to the previous embodiments, which provides for multi-axisrepositioning of casing 9914 and, therefore, reflective element 9916 ormay comprise a single-ball support, as such are known in the rearviewmirror art. Support 9930 includes mirror mount 9940 for releasablyengaging mounting button 9936 to thereby form a break-away connectionbetween mirror assembly 9910 and windshield W.

As noted above, header console 9912 may support a plurality of vehicleaccessories, including for example an antenna 9922, including a globalpositioning system (GPS) antenna; a rain sensor, including a contactingand a non-contacting rain sensor; one or more cameras; lights;components of or an entire electronic toll collection (ETC) assembly;loud speakers and/or microphones, including for example a microphonearray, such as for a sound system (such as disclosed in co-assigned U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/466,010 filed Dec. 17, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,420,975; Ser. No. 09/396,179 filed Sep. 14, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,278,377; Ser. No. 09/382,720 filed Aug. 25, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,243,003; Ser. No. 09/449,121 filed Nov. 24, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,428,172; Ser. No. 09/433,467 filed Nov. 4, 1999, now U.S.Pat. No. 6,326,613; and Ser. No. 09/448,700 filed Nov. 24, 1999, nowU.S. Pat. No. 6,329,925, the entire disclosures of all of which arehereby incorporated by reference herein); components of or an entirecellular phone system; components of or an entire telematic system,including a transceiver, an antenna, one or more user actuatabledevices, such as user actuatable buttons; pull down or flip displays,including video displays, such as described and reference previously;universal garage door opener systems, such as HOMELINK®; digital soundprocessing systems; a trip computer, seat occupancy detector; air bagactuation status display; sensors for compass headings or temperature; avehicle tire pressure monitoring controller 9923 (that preferablyincludes an RF receiving antenna, a microprocessor and all thecircuitry, user input controls/buttons and other controls needed toreceive and process wireless signals broadcast from the various tirepressure sensors located in the tire on the wheels of the vehicle), adisplay element 9945 for display information relating to, for examplethe tire pressure monitoring system, other vehicle status, includingcoolant temperature, fuel levels, or the like, and externalenvironmental status or information, such as outside temperature,compass headings or for displaying other information, such as emailmessages, or for displaying images such as images relating to interiorsurveillance systems, rearvision aid systems, or teleconferencing imagesor the like.

As best seen in FIG. 149, display 9945 is positioned above and forwardlyof mirror casing 9914 whereby display 9945 does not interfere with ordistract the driver and yet is accessible for easy viewing and, further,is optionally accessible for touching in the case of a touch activateddisplay screen. In addition, display element 9945 optionally ispositioned high enough within the vehicle cabin so that the images, suchas tire pressure indicators, may be viewable from outside the vehicle,including at the rear of the vehicle so that a person inflating a reartire could view the indications provided by the tire pressureindicators.

As noted in reference to the previous embodiment, by extending theheader console downwardly and forward of the mirror assembly,significantly increased storage spaced is realized at the mirrormounting location but outside of casing 9914. In a similar manner, themirror assembly 9910 and/or header console 9912 may be removed forupgrade or replacement of components within either the mirror assemblyor the console to thereby customize the accessory module/mirror system9900 to suit the particular needs of the vehicle customer.

It can be appreciated that the mirror assemblies of the previousembodiments either connect to or through the header console. Optionally,one or more electrical/electronic devices or functions housed orprovided in the interior rearview mirror assemblies may communicatewith, such as by wireless communication, including RF communication, orelectrically couple, such as by wires and/or cables, to controlcircuitry either wholly or partially housed in the header console. Forexample, the interior rearview mirror assemblies may include a sensor,such as a photo sensor, which communicates with or electrically couplesto sensor circuitry located at least partially in the respective headerconsole. For an example of a suitable communication system that may beincorporated in the present invention reference is made to U.S. Pat. No.6,099,131, which is incorporated by reference in its entirety herein.

Also, lighting for illumination purposes and the like, and especiallyfor reading lights such as map reading lights, or forinstrumentation/console lighting, provided in any of the video mirrorassemblies, rearview mirror assemblies, camera assemblies and/oraccessory modules of the present invention (and/or in other vehicularaccessories such as an exterior mirror assembly-mounted groundillumination/security light or in an exterior mirror assembly-mountedturn indicator or brake indicator signal light) may includehigh-intensity, high current capability light emitting diodes such asthe high-flux LEDs available from LumiLeds Lighting, U.S., LLC of SanJose, Calif. under the Sun Power Series High-Flux LED tradename. Suchhigh intensity LEDs comprise a power package allowing high currentoperation of at least about 100 milliamps forward current, morepreferably at least about 250 milliamps forward current, and mostpreferably at least about 350 milliamps forward current through a singleLED. Such high current/high intensity LEDs (as high as 500 mA or morecurrent possible, and especially with use of heat sinks) are capable ofdelivering a luminous efficiency of at least about 1 lumen per watt,more preferably at least about 3 lumens per watt, and most preferably atleast about 5 lumens per watt. Such high intensity LEDS are available inblue, green, blue-green, red, amber, yellow and white light emittingforms, as well as other colors. Such high-intensity LEDs can provide awide-angle radiation pattern, such as an about 30 degree to an about 160degree cone. Typically, such high intensity LEDs are fabricated usingIndium Gallium Nitride technology. To assist heat dissipation andmaintain the LED junction below about 130° Celsius (and more preferablybelow about 100 degrees Celsius and most preferably below about 70°Celsius), a heat sink can be used. Preferably such heat sink comprises ametal heat dissipater (such as an aluminum metal heat sink) with asurface area dissipating heat of at least about 1 square inch, morepreferably of at least about 2.5 square inches, and most preferably ofat least about 3.5 square inches. When used as, for example, a map lightassembly mounted in an interior rearview mirror assembly (such as in themirror housing or in a pod attaching to the mirror mount to thevehicle), a single high-intensity LED (for example, a single white lightemitting LED passing about 350 mA and emitting white light with aluminous efficiency of at least about 3 lumens per watt, and with alight pattern of about 120 degrees or so) can be combined with areflector element and a lens to form a high-intensity LED interior lightmodule capable of directing an intense white light beam of light from aninterior mirror assembly mounted to a windshield or header region of thevehicle to the lap area of a driver or a front-seat passenger in orderto allow a reading function such as a map reading function and/or toprovide courtesy or theatre lighting within the vehicle cabin. Also, asingle high-intensity LED (for example, a single white light emittingLED or a red light emitting or any other colored light emitting diodepassing about 350 mA and emitting white light with a luminous efficiencyof at least about 3 lumens per watt, and with a light pattern of about120° or so) can be combined with a reflector element and a lens to forma high-intensity LED security light module capable of directing anintense white light beam of light (or any other color) from an exteriormirror assembly to illuminate the ground adjacent an entry door of thevehicle in order to provide a security lighting function. Also, a singlehigh-intensity LED (for example, a single white light emitting LED or ared light emitting or any other colored light emitting diode passingabout 350 mA and emitting white light with a luminous efficiency of atleast about 3 lumens per watt, and with a light pattern of about 120° orso) can be combined with a reflector element and a lens (and optionallywith high-intensity and/or conventional near-IR light emitting diodes),and be used in conjunction with a reversing or forward parking cameramounted on the exterior of a vehicle (such as at a license plate holder)in order to provide illumination for the, for example, reverse-aidcamera when reversing at night.

In addition, lighting provided in any of the rearview mirror assembliesor vehicle accessories, including the video display assemblies,accessory modules, pods, compass modules, or the like, may incorporate anon-incandescent light source unit, such as described in U.S.provisional application Ser. No. 60/271,466, filed Feb. 26, 2001, theentire disclosure of which is incorporated by reference herein.

Also, communication to or between any of the video mirror assemblies,rearview mirror assemblies, camera assemblies and/or accessory modulesof the present invention (and/or in other vehicular accessories such asan exterior mirror assembly-mounted ground illumination/security lightor in an exterior mirror assembly-mounted turn indicator or brakeindicator signal light or in a passive entry system) can be via wiredand/or wireless linkage. For example, wireless linkage can be via ashort-range RF communication protocol such as BLUETOOTH or via awireless data networking standard such as the 802.11b local area network(LAN) standard. The 802.11b standard, operating at the 2.4 gigahertzradio band, is ratified by the American Institute of Electrical andElectronics Engineers for wireless data connection of up to 11 megabitsper second, and is suitable for use in broadband connectivity. Thus, forexample, a camera mounted in a roof region of the interior cabin of thevehicle, or outside the vehicle as a reverse-aid camera, or in a towedtrailer, can send images captured to, for example, a video displaymodule or a video mirror assembly mounted to the windshield or header ofthe interior cabin utilizing wireless communication such as BLUETOOTH or802.11b.

It can be appreciated from the foregoing that the present inventionprovides a stand-alone accessory module that can be installed as anafter-market product, which is separate and distinct from the interiorrearview mirror assembly. For example, a manufacturer of an interiorrearview mirror assembly may purchase the accessory module of thepresent invention to add the accessory to its product line so that whenits interior rearview mirror assembly is installed at the plant, it canbe installed along with the accessory module. Alternately, the accessorymodule of the present invention may be separately distributed or soldsuch as an after-market product, in which case the dealer or purchasemay remove the existing mounted interior rearview mirror assembly fromthe mirror mounting button of the windshield and install the accessorymodule of the present invention, followed by the mounting of theinterior rearview mirror assembly onto the accessory module of thepresent invention. As previously noted, the accessory module of thepresent invention may also be mounted to a separate windshield mountingelement or header adjacent to a conventional interior rearview mirrorassembly mounting arrangement.

It can also be appreciated that the present invention provides anaccessory module, preferably a unitary accessory module, and, morepreferably, a self-contained unitary accessory module that is adapted tomount to a conventional mirror mounting button, such as those providedon windshields (or to another attachment element such as awindshield-mounted attachment element or a header-mounted attachmentelement). The module can be installed in an after-market setting (or inan automaker, service or dealership setting) and, preferably in someapplications, includes a mirror-mounting button on which an interiorrearview mirror assembly can be mounted, preferably with a break-awayconnection. In this manner, one or both of the interior rearview mirrorassembly and accessory module can break-away from its respectivemounting.

The various accessory modules integrate various features in a modular,compact design that are easy to assemble and further can be assembled soas to incorporate a wide variety of off-the shelf components and thusprovide for economy of packaging. For example, either the accessorymodule or the interior rearview mirror assembly may include at least oneadditional electrical accessory selected from the group consisting of atrainable garage door opener, a universal home access system, aninternet interface, a remote keyless entry receiver, a video device, arain sensor, a compass sensor, a trip computer, an intrusion detector, aphone, an interior light, a seat occupancy detector, a phone attachment,a headlamp controller, a printer, a transmitter receiver, a modem, aninstrumentation light, a console light, a solar panel, a windshielddefogger device, an antenna, a loud speaker, a microphone, a digitalmessage recorder, a magnetic tape message recorder, a phone controlpanel, and a digital storage device.

Furthermore, any one of the displays or video screens may be configuredto display an information display selected from the group consisting ofa rain sensor operation display, a telephone information display, ahighway status information display, a blind spot indicator display, ahazard warning display, a vehicle status display, a page messagedisplay, a speedometer display, a tachometer display, an audio systemdisplay, a fuel gage display, a heater control display, an airconditioning system display, a status of inflation of tires display, anemail message display, a compass display, an engine coolant temperaturedisplay, an oil pressure display, a cellular phone operation display, aglobal positioning display, a weather information display, a temperaturedisplay, a traffic information display, a telephone number display, afuel status display, a battery condition display, a time display, atrain approach warning display, and a toll booth transaction display.Furthermore, as noted, the video screens may display rearward field ofview images, internal cabin monitoring images, and/or remote images,such as teleconferencing images, or the like.

The accessory modules provide increased storage capacity for theever-increasing number of systems that are desirable in vehicles todayand, further, position one or more user interface accessories at aconvenient location in the vehicle for easy access by occupants of thevehicle. In addition, the accessory modules offer a wide range ofoptional features that can be pre-selected or custom selected to suitthe needs of either the vehicle manufacturer or the customer. Since theaccessory modules are separate from the interior rearview mirrors, theycan be added, removed, or upgraded with ease. In addition, the accessorymodules provide optional adjustment, such as a telescoping portion, onwhich the viewable user interface accessories are preferably mounted.Furthermore, preferably and desirably, one or more user interfaceaccessories may be removable for use independent of the module or forrepair, replacement, or upgrade.

Also, any of the interior mirror assemblies, video mirror assemblies,accessory modules, video display assemblies, and electrical/electronicaccessories disclosed above can optionally be provided with a dedicatedbattery power source that is, preferably, separate from the vehiclebattery/vehicle ignition. Preferably, such a dedicated power sourcecomprises a rechargeable battery (or plurality of rechargeablebatteries) and most preferably comprises a rechargeable battery (orplurality of rechargeable batteries) coupled to a solar cell/solar panel(such as an amorphous silicon solar cell or a gallium arsenide solarcell) that can convert incident light (such as solar insulation) to anelectrical potential/current that recharges the rechargeable battery(that preferably comprises a nickel manganese hydride rechargeablebattery). This is particularly useful for aftermarket installations orwhen the accessory to the vehicle (such as a passive entry system suchas described in U.S. Provisional Application Ser. No. 60/242,315, filedOct. 20, 2000 and U.S. Pat. No. 5,497,306, the entire disclosures ofwhich are herein incorporated by reference) powered by the dedicatedrechargeable battery/solar recharger source may consume such a largecurrent (such as 5 milliamps or 10 milliamps or 50 milliamps or higher)that concern may exist that were the dedicated battery/solar rechargernot used, then the current consumed by that accessory while the vehicleis parked and operating under vehicle battery power would eventuallydischarge the vehicle battery (such as might happen were the vehicleparked for an extended period such as in an airport parking lot whilethe driver is away on vacation), an undesirable event as the driver, onreturning to the parked vehicle, would not be able to start the enginefrom a depleted, discharged vehicle battery. By powering such anaccessory by a separate, dedicated solar-powered rechargeable batterysource, and by ensuring that the accessory is disconnected from thevehicle battery source (at least when the engine is not operating suchas when the vehicle is parked), the accessory (such as an intrusiondetector, a security system, a keyless entry system such as apassive-entry keyless entry system, a trunk or vehicle cabin occupancydetector system, an electro-optic system such as an electrochromicmirror system or an electrochromic glazing system, a camera system suchas a surveillance system, a garage door opener system, atelecommunication receiver such as ONSTAR® transceiver, a parking sightsuch as a side marker light, or the like) can consume power from itsdedicated/local battery source, and any power used up during nighttimehours can be replenished by day via the solar cell/panel that isconnected to the dedicated battery/batteries so as to recharge/chargeduring daytime.

Thus, for example, an interior rearview mirror assembly can be providedequipped with a solar cell or panel (such as a solar cell or panel thatis included on/in the surface of the interior reflective element mirrorhousing that faces the vehicle front windshield when the interiorrearview mirror assembly is mounted in the interior cabin of thevehicle) that is configured to charge a NiMH rechargeable battery orplurality of NiMH rechargeable batteries. The NiMH rechargeable batteryor plurality of NiMH rechargeable batteries recharged by the solar cellsdisposed on the forward-facing surface of the interior mirror housing(and such that solar energy passing through the vehicle front windshieldinto the vehicle cabin is incident upon the active surface of the solarcell/panel; note, that optionally, a solar energy concentrator such asan optical element or reflector element can be used tofocus/funnel/direct incident solar energy passing through the frontwindshield onto the solar cell/panel of the interior mirror assembly)can be located within the cavity formed by the mirror housing (andbehind the mirror reflector therein) or can be located in a module orpod that attaches to the mount (such as a windshield-button attachingmount as disclosed above). The dedicated solar rechargeablebattery/batteries can power any electrical/electronic accessory of theinterior mirror assembly including all such disclosed above such as anelectrochromic mirror reflector, a compass sensing/display system, atire pressure receiver/display system, a combined universal trainablegarage door opener transceiver system such as HOMELINK® from JCI/tirepressure receiver/display system/keyless entry receiver, a tireinflation assistance system such as disclosed above, a telematic system,a microphone system, a cellular phone system etc. For example, anelectrochromic mirror reflector can be powered by a single NiMH battery(or parallel connection of a plurality of NiMH batteries) that generatesan about 1.2 V potential and thus well suits the typically recommendeddrive voltage for electrochromic mirror reflectors, such as thosedescribed above, in use commonly in vehicles. Since such powering of anelectrochromic mirror element typically only occurs at night (such asvia user-actuation of a switch to dim the electrochromic mirror elementwhen glare from trailing headlights is experienced at night, or viaautomatic glare sensing circuitry as known in the mirror art), anybattery power consumed during nighttime driving can be replenishedduring daylight via the mirror-based solar cell/cells. Note that suchsolar cells/panel(s) can be incorporated into the mirror assembly by avariety of ways, including by integral molding and by in-mold techniquessuch as are disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/564,665,filed May 1, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,310,738, which is hereinincorporated by reference in its entirety.

For outside mirror assemblies, solar energy collecting/convertingcells/panel(s) can be included in the forward-of-the-vehicle facingportion of the exterior mirror assembly. Such exterior mirror assembliestypically protrude out on either side of the vehicle, and typicallyinclude a rearward facing mirror reflector in a housing, theforward-facing outer surface of which housing is a good location for asolar cell/panel as it faces both forward and partially skywards. Therechargeable batteries that are charged by the solar cell/panel on aparticular outside mirror assembly (and on most vehicle, there are two .. . a driver-side and a passenger-side) can optionally be located in thecavity of the mirror housing of that particular mirror assembly behindthe mirror reflector (and thus disposed between the solar cell/panel andthe mirror reflector), or can be disposed in a compartment below theportion of the mirror housing including the mirror reflective element,or elsewhere in the vehicle such as in a door panel. Preferably, theexterior mirror assembly includes a cap or skull cap such as isdisclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,019,475, U.S. patent application Ser. No.09/482,199, filed Jan. 12, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,419,300, and U.S.patent application Ser. No. 09/564,665, filed May 1, 2000, now U.S. Pat.No. 6,310,738, which are herein incorporated by reference in theirentireties, and with the solar cell/panel included in the cap or skullcap such as by integral molding or by in-mold film techniques such asdisclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/564,665, filed May 1,2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,310,738, which is herein incorporated byreference in its entirety.

Also, a solar cell/panel can be included in a door panel vehicle,preferably at an at least partially skyward facing portion such asadjacent the lower part of a side window of the vehicle. For example, asolar cell(s)/panel(s) can be included in a cap assembly of a modulardoor, such as described in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/679,997,filed Oct. 5, 2000, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,669,267, the entire disclosureof which is herein incorporated by reference herein. The rechargeablebattery pack may be located in the inner cavity (covered by trim) of thedoor panel, or elsewhere in the vehicle. An exterior mirror-mountedrechargeable battery/solar power generator can feed electrical power toany accessory in the vehicle (such as any of those disclosed above) orto any accessory local to or at the particular exterior mirror assemblyequipped with the rechargeable battery/solar power generator. Thus, forexample, a driver-side or passenger-side exterior sideview mirrorassembly equipped with a rechargeable battery/solar power generator caninclude a keyless passive entry system (or components such as an antennathereof) that is powered by the rechargeable battery/solar powergenerator when the vehicle is parked and the vehicle ignition is turnedoff so that the engine is not operating. By providing a stand-alonepower source via the rechargeable battery/solar power generator (thatpreferably is located at or adjacent to the particular exterior mirrorassembly equipped with the antenna), a larger than normal current canpass through the antenna than might otherwise be allowed should thevehicle battery have been used. Because the antenna and/or the passivekeyless entry system is provided with its own solar-rechargeable powersource, this allows for a more powerful, wider-range, more versatilekeyless entry system. Alternately, a mirror-based rechargeablebattery/solar power generator (interior mirror-located or exteriormirror-located) can provide the power for an antenna or a wirelesstransceiver or a wireless receiver or a wireless transmitter elsewherein the vehicle such as in a door handle assembly (such as in the movablepaddle of such assembly).

Also, for example, a parking indicator such as a light emitting diode(s)light source can be mounted on a portion of an exterior body assembly,such as an exterior sideview mirror assembly (and preferably at oradjacent to an outboard portion of the exterior mirror assembly furthestfrom the side of the vehicle when the mirror assembly is mounted on theexterior of the vehicle) or a door panel assembly or a door handleassembly and powered by a rechargeable battery/solar power generator(preferably mirror-mounted such as an exterior or an interior mirrorassembly) to illuminate (such as by flashing) to alert other drivers androad users of the parked presence of the vehicle. This is particularlyuseful at night on narrow streets. Preferably, an exterior mirrorassembly is equipped both with a rechargeable battery/solar powergenerator and with a parking or other signaling indicator (such as anLED or a plurality of LEDS) that is powered by the rechargeablebattery/solar power generator when the vehicle is parked.

Also, any of the video screens of the above embodiments, and such asdisclosed above, can display the image output by a forward facing imagecapture device (preferably positioned to capture a video image of theground surface/objects/persons immediately in front of the vehicle, mostpreferably encompassing an area that encompasses substantially theentire front fender width of the vehicle and/or can display the imageoutput by a rearward facing image capture device positioned to capture avideo image of the ground surface/objects/persons immediately to therear of the vehicle, most preferably encompassing an area thatencompasses substantially the entire rear fender width of the vehicle.Preferably, a graphic overlay with indicia of forward or backup travel,such as disclosed in U.S. patent application Ser. No. 09/313,139 filedMay 19, 1999, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,222,447, in U.S. patent applicationSer. No. 09/776,625, now U.S. Pat. No. 6,611,202, filed Feb. 5, 2001,now U.S. Pat. No. 6,611,202, and in U.S. Pat. No. 5,949,331, the entiredisclosures of which are hereby incorporated by reference herein. Forexample, the intended path of travel and/or a distance grid can beelectronically superimposed upon the video image from a reverse-aidcamera as displayed on any screen of the above video mirrors, videodisplay assemblies and accessory modules.

Also, for the lighting applications described above such as vehicularinterior cabin lighting, map/reading/courtesy/theater lightsincorporated into an interior mirror assembly such as in the mirrorcasing, a ground illumination/security light incorporated in an exteriorside view mirror assembly, an instrumentation/console light, a whitelight emitting non-incandescent light emitting diode source can be usedthat produces white light. Preferably, such a white light emittingnon-incandescent light emitting diode source is thermostable, emittingthe same color light even when the temperature varies. Thus, regardlessof the interior or exterior temperature of the vehicle and/or of theaccessory equipped with the thermostable a white light emittingnon-incandescent light emitting diode source, the same color light isradiated. Such a thermostable white light emitting non-incandescentlight emitting diode source can incorporate a trio of red, green andblue fluorescent materials that together create white light when struckby 380 nm wavelength light from a gallium-nitride LED, and is availablefrom Toyoda Gosei Co. and Toshiba Corp of Nagoya, Japan.

A white light emitting diode (LED) that is thermostable is availablefrom Toshiba America Electronic Components, Inc. of Irvine, Calif., PartNumber: TLWA1100. The thermostable white-light LED integrates multiplecolored phosphors and a short peak wavelength (preferably, approximately380 nanometers (nm) in peak spectral output intensity) light-emittingdiode junction in a phosphor-mixed transparent resin package to achievea high luminosity, low power consumption light source. Such thermostableLEDs adopt a technological approach differing from that used inconventional LEDs. Light emission in the visible wavelength band iscontrolled by excited phosphors, not by using temperature changes in theLED to achieve a change in color output. The fact that the LED emissiondoes not directly determine the color brings advantages in overallcontrollability and wavelength stability. Incorporated in vehicularaccessories such as those disclosed above, the thermostable diodeachieves improved tonic reproduction and enhanced color durabilityduring temperature shifts. Such thermostable LEDs utilize a shortwavelength light source by reducing the indium in an indium-doped GaNemission layer. This excites red, green and blue phosphors in thetransparent resin of the device package to output white light. The RGBbalance of the phosphor layer determines the output color, and differentcolored output can be achieved through modified phosphor balance. Theemission light from the LED itself does not directly contribute to thewhite color. The phosphors used in the new LED offer excellentperformance in terms of operating temperature range and color yield.Specifications of such thermostable white LEDs include a compact package(3.2×2.8 millimeter), provided in a Surface Mount Device (SMD).Luminosity is typically about 100 millicandela (mcd) at 20 mA andluminous flux/electrical watt is about 4.5-5.0 lumens per watt at 20 mA.Correlated color temperature is about 6,500-9,000K. Operatingtemperature is about −40-100 Celsius and storage temperature is about−40-100 Celsius.

While several forms of the invention have been shown and described,other forms will now be apparent to those skilled in the art. Therefore,it will be understood that the embodiments shown in the drawings anddescribed above are merely for illustrative purposes, and are notintended to limit the scope of the invention which is defined by theclaims which follow as interpreted under the principles of patent lawincluding the doctrine of equivalents.

We claim:
 1. A cabin monitoring system for a vehicle, said cabinmonitoring system comprising: a video display screen disposed in a cabinof a vehicle equipped with said cabin monitoring system so as to beviewable by a driver of the equipped vehicle when the driver is drivingthe equipped vehicle; a camera assembly disposed at a ceiling of thecabin of the equipped vehicle, said camera assembly comprising a cameracomprising an imager and a lens, said camera having a field of view thatencompasses a rear seat area of the equipped vehicle; an illuminationdevice operable to illuminate the rear seat area encompassed by thefield of view of said camera; wherein said illumination device, whenoperated, illuminates the rear seat area and wherein said cameracaptures image data representative of the illuminated rear seat area;and wherein image data captured by said camera is provided to said videodisplay screen for displaying video images for viewing by the driver ofthe equipped vehicle.
 2. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, whereinsaid video display screen is disposed at an interior rearview mirrorassembly of the equipped vehicle.
 3. The cabin monitoring system ofclaim 1, wherein said video display screen is disposed in an interiorrearview mirror assembly of the equipped vehicle and is viewable througha reflective element of the interior rearview mirror assembly of theequipped vehicle.
 4. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, whereinsaid video display screen is part of a module attached at a windshieldof the equipped vehicle.
 5. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1,wherein said camera assembly is part of an interior dome light of theequipped vehicle.
 6. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, whereinsaid illumination device is operable to emit near infrared radiation andwherein said camera is sensitive to near infrared radiation.
 7. Thecabin monitoring system of claim 1, wherein said illumination deviceoperates, responsive at least in part, to an ambient light level in thecabin of the equipped vehicle.
 8. The cabin monitoring system of claim7, wherein said illumination device, responsive to lower ambient lightlevel, emits illumination at a reduced intensity and, responsive tohigher ambient light level, emits illumination at an increasedintensity.
 9. The cabin monitoring system of claim 7, wherein saidillumination device, responsive to lower ambient light level, emits nearinfrared radiation.
 10. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, whereinsaid camera comprises an infrared filter element.
 11. The cabinmonitoring system of claim 10, wherein said infrared filter element isdisposed in front of said imager during higher ambient light levels andis moved away from in front of said imager during lower ambient lightlevels.
 12. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, wherein saidillumination device comprises at least one light emitting diode.
 13. Thecabin monitoring system of claim 1, wherein said illumination devicecomprises at least one light emitting diode operable to emit nearinfrared radiation.
 14. The cabin monitoring system of claim 1, whereinsaid camera assembly includes said illumination device.
 15. The cabinmonitoring system of claim 1, wherein said illumination device and saidcamera assembly are co-located at the ceiling of the cabin of theequipped vehicle.
 16. A cabin monitoring system for a vehicle, saidcabin monitoring system comprising: a video display screen disposed in acabin of a vehicle equipped with said cabin monitoring system so as tobe viewable by a driver of the equipped vehicle when the driver isdriving the equipped vehicle; a camera assembly disposed at a ceiling ofthe cabin of the equipped vehicle, said camera assembly comprising acamera comprising an imager and a lens, said camera having a field ofview that encompasses a rear seat area of the equipped vehicle; anillumination device operable to illuminate the rear seat areaencompassed by the field of view of said camera; wherein saidillumination device comprises at least one light emitting diode operableto emit near infrared radiation; wherein said illumination device andsaid camera assembly are co-located at the ceiling of the cabin of theequipped vehicle; wherein said illumination device, when operated,illuminates the rear seat area and wherein said camera captures imagedata representative of the illuminated rear seat area; and wherein imagedata captured by said camera is provided to said video display screenfor displaying video images for viewing by the driver of the equippedvehicle.
 17. The cabin monitoring system of claim 16, wherein said videodisplay screen is disposed at an interior rearview mirror assembly ofthe equipped vehicle.
 18. The cabin monitoring system of claim 16,wherein said video display screen is part of a module attached at awindshield of the equipped vehicle.
 19. The cabin monitoring system ofclaim 16, wherein said camera is sensitive to near infrared radiation.20. A cabin monitoring system for a vehicle, said cabin monitoringsystem comprising: a video display screen disposed in a cabin of avehicle equipped with said cabin monitoring system so as to be viewableby a driver of the equipped vehicle when the driver is driving theequipped vehicle; a camera assembly disposed at a ceiling of the cabinof the equipped vehicle, said camera assembly comprising a cameracomprising an imager and a lens, said camera having a field of view thatencompasses a rear seat area of the equipped vehicle; an illuminationdevice operable to illuminate the rear seat area encompassed by thefield of view of said camera; wherein said illumination device comprisesat least one light emitting diode operable to emit near infraredradiation; wherein the rear seat area illuminated by said illuminationdevice and encompassed by the field of view of said camera comprises aportion of the vehicle rear seat that is configured to be occupied by ababy or child in a car seat; wherein said illumination device, whenoperated, illuminates the rear seat area and wherein said cameracaptures image data representative of the illuminated rear seat area;and wherein image data captured by said camera is provided to said videodisplay screen for displaying video images for viewing by the driver ofthe equipped vehicle.
 21. The cabin monitoring system of claim 20,wherein said video display screen is disposed at an interior rearviewmirror assembly of the equipped vehicle.
 22. The cabin monitoring systemof claim 20, wherein said video display screen is part of a moduleattached at a windshield of the equipped vehicle.
 23. The cabinmonitoring system of claim 20, wherein said illumination device isoperable to emit near infrared radiation and wherein said camera issensitive to near infrared radiation.
 24. The cabin monitoring system ofclaim 20, wherein said illumination device and said camera assembly areco-located at the ceiling of the cabin of the equipped vehicle.